Modulatory effect of a complex fraction derived from colostrum on fibroblast contractibility and consequences on repair tissue.

A complex compound (immune (’IM’) fraction) from colostrum-derived whey was investigated for its potential wound healing properties. One of its most intriguing in vitro abilities was to significantly inhibit the contraction of collagen gel while fibroblast density remained as in control gels. This antagonist effect was dose dependent and fibroblasts in these gels did not exhibit any stress fibres. Subsequently, in vivo studies have been conducted in two wound models in guinea pigs. Daily application on full-thickness wounds of a liquid formulation of the IM fraction (first model) significantly delayed wound closure by contraction compared to what normally occurred in control wounds. In another wound model, a gel formulation of the IM fraction was applied on scar tissues, which resulted in a minimised residual scar on 5/8 wounds compared to corresponding wound areas seen prior to treatment. Conversely, most control wounds exhibited scar tissue from which 3/8 resembled hypertrophic scar tissue. Wound tissue treated with IM fraction covered a significantly larger area than in the control wounds, whereas the collagen deposition was unchanged as in the presence of α-smooth muscle actin. Thus, IM fraction may act by modulating the contraction rate and wound remodelling.