Effects of basic fibroblast growth factor on the scar of the rabbit ear model in wound healing

Objective To investigate the effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on the hypertrophic scar in the rabbit ear model and clarify whether it contributes to improve the quality of scar in wound healing.Methods The rabbit ear model of wound healing was created and treated topically with bFGF once daily for 3 months.The changes of macroscopic and histopathological characteristics of scars and the expression of collagen and collagenase-1 (MMP-1) were observed by RT-PCR and Western blot a-nalysis.Results The results of macroscopic and histologic characteristics revealed significant difference between scars treated with bFGF and control scars.The expression of collagen in the scars treated with bF-GF was decreased as compared to those treated with saline.Further study revealed bFGF could remarkably enhance the expression of MMP-1.Conclusion This study supports the hypothesis that the bFGF exerts a net negative effect on collagen remodeling by stimulating the synthesis of MMP-1, suggesting a potential an-ti-scarring role during wound healing. Key words: Hypertrophic scar;  bFGF;  Collagen