in vivo Evaluation of Wound Healing Efficacy of Halophilic Levan-Based Biomaterial in the Treatment of Burns
BURNS, ss.1-12, 2026 (SCI-Expanded)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.burns.2026.108198
- Dergi Adı: BURNS
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED)
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1-12
- Eskişehir Osmangazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Severe burn injuries are characterized not only by tissue destruction but also by dysregulated inflammatory responses, excessive cytokine release, and impaired extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Persistent TNF-α signalling and prolonged inflammatory activation contribute to delayed re-epithelialization and abnormal collagen organization, ultimately leading to fibrosis and scarring. Therefore, biomaterials capable of modulating early inflammatory cascades while simultaneously supporting angiogenesis and ECM maturation represent a critical unmet need in advanced burn care.
In this study, bioactive gels containing halophilic levan produced by Halomonas elongata 153 R were developed and evaluated in a standardized second-degree burn model. Levan (5%–20% w/w) was incorporated into a polyvinyl alcohol/xanthan gum/Carbopol matrix to obtain clinically applicable gel formulations. Cytocompatibility was confirmed in human dermal fibroblasts. In vivo therapeutic efficacy was assessed in Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 140) at days 3 and 14 through macroscopic, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and gene expression analyses.
Topical application of 10% and 15% levan hydrogels accelerated wound closure compared with untreated controls and demonstrated improved re-epithelialization, more organized collagen deposition with type I predominance, and increased neovascularization. TNF-α expression was significantly modulated at day 14, suggesting a more regulated inflammatory progression.
Overall, levan-based gels showed favorable effects on key parameters of burn wound repair in this experimental model and may warrant further investigation as adjunctive materials for topical burn management.