The Effect of Bone-Marrow-Derived Stem Cells and Adipose-Derived Stem Cells on Wound Contraction and Epithelization.

The relationship between the wound contraction and levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) has been revealed in different studies. We aimed to investigate the effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), mainly bone-marrow-derived stem cells (BSCs) and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), and find out the α-SMA, fibroblast growth factor (FGF), transforming growth factor beta, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels on an acute wound healing model after the application of MSCs. Four circular skin defects were formed on the dorsum of Fisher rats (=20). The defects were applied phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), ASCs, BSCs, and patchy skin graft, respectively. The healing time and scar area were noted. There was a statistical decrease in the healing time in ASC, BSC, and skin graft groups (<0.05). However, the scar was smaller in the PBS group (<0.05). The α-SMA levels were statistically lower in ASC, BSC, and graft groups (<0.05). The FGF levels were statistically higher in ASC and BSC groups (<0.05). The differentiation of the injected MSCs to endothelial cells and keratinocytes was observed. MSCs decrease the healing time and contraction of the wound while increasing the epithelization rate by increasing angiogenesis.