Effects of a collagen matrix containing basic fibroblast growth factor on wound contraction

We evaluated the effectiveness of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in inhibiting wound contraction, both alone and in combination with collagen m atrix, using a simulated ill vivo delayed healing type model. We also studi ed the mechanisms involved in this inhibition in in vitro experiments using fibroblast populated collagen gels. As a result, we were able to demonstra te that both collagen matrix and bFGF significantly inhibited mound contrac tion; especially, bFGF acted in a dose-dependent fashion. Interestingly, th eir combination was much more effective than either collagen matrix or bFGF alone, a finding that was supported by the histopathological data. Wounds treated with collagen matrix, but not control wounds, showed horizontal rea rrangement of collagen fibers in dermis as well as evidence of fibroblast p roliferation, which was not observed in scar regions surrounded by normal d ermis, Using fibroblast-populated collagen gel contraction as an in vitro m odel, we found that bFGF significantly inhibited contraction. Taking all th ese results together, it was concluded that collagen matrix is useful not o nly as a carrier of cytokines such as bFGF, but also for the quick closure of chronic wounds, thereby preventing contracture, which remains one of the most challenging problems in treating this type of wound. Application of b FGF-treated collagen matrix to chronic wounds such as decubitus, and diabet ic and leg ulcers may prove to be highly beneficial in clinical practice. ( C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.