The effects of TGF-beta(3) modulation on scar tissue formation in the pig

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-P) is a product of platelets, macropha ges and fibroblasts that is instrumental in modulating the heeling process. Of the three distinct subtypes of TGF-P present in humans, TGF-P, has been noted to reduce cutaneous scarring in rats. In an effort to investigate th e effects of TGF-P, on skin more closely resembling that of humans, TGF-P, and its antibody were injected serially into porcine cutaneous wounds. Exog enous administration of antibody to TGF-P, significantly increases the brea king strength of porcine wounds seven and Fourteen days post injury. A sign ificant elevation in the breaking strength of wounds treated with higher do ses of TGF-P, antibody at seven and fourteen days post injury was noted com pared to controls. Histologic examination revealed substantially greater fi broplasia in the dermis of wounds treated with higher doses of antibody to TGF-P, fourteen days post injury when compared to control. Exogenous admini stration of antibody to TGF-P, significantly increases the breaking strengt h of porcine wounds seven and fourteen days post injury.