The effect of epidermal growth factor & platelet-derived growth factors on wound healing process

Background & objectives: Various growth factors play significant roles during the process of wound healing. A systematic study was carried out to evaluate the effects of topically applied epidermal growth factor (EGF) and platelet-derived growth factors (PDGF-BB, PDGF-AB, PDGF-AA) in various concentrations on wound healing. Various combinations of these growth factors were also studied to find the best combination for wound healing. Methods: Wounds were created on a mouse model. Various concentrations and combinations of EGF and PDGFs were applied topically and the effects on wound healing were monitored visually. Results: EGF, PDGF-AB and PDGF-BB when applied alone or in combination, healed the wounds in significantly less time and with less scar tissue formation compared to the controls. The best results were obtained with a combination of EGF (10 ng) and PDGF-BB (15 ng). PDGF-AA even at the maximum concentration of 20 ng did not enhance the wound repair process. A combination of PDGF-AA (20 ng) with EGF (10 ng) did not enhance the wound repair process either. Interpretation & conclusion: Topically applied EGF, PDGF-AB and PDGF-BB enhanced the wound repair process and had a role in decreasing the formation of scar tissue. PDGF-AA either alone or in combination with EGF did not enhance the wound repair process significantly. It appears that PDGF-AA might be limiting the EGF-mediated wound repair and such observation has not been previously reported in studies on wound healing using topically applied growth factors.