Comparative evaluation of wound healing with different treatments in rats: Cytokine modulation, histological remodeling, and scar outcomes

Background Skin injury repair depends on a tightly regulated sequence of inflammation, proliferation, and matrix remodeling, where mediators such as IL-1 and IL-6 contribute to immune activation and extracellular matrix formation. Variability in cytokine control influences scar maturation, prompting exploration of treatment strategies capable of shortening the inflammatory phase and enhancing structural regeneration. Methods This study compared four wound-care approaches in rats with surgically induced full- thickness lesions: a polysilicon-siloxane formulation (PS), a silicone-based gel (Sil), a betamethasone preparation (BMt), and a heparin-containing agent (Hep). Topical formulations were applied two to three times daily, while BMt was delivered weekly by subcutaneous injection. Serum IL-1 and IL-6 concentrations were quantified by ELISA, scar evolution was documented using the Vancouver Scar Scale, and tissue organization was examined through histological staining protocols, including trichrome-based collagen visualization and elastic fiber assessment. Results Early cytokine elevation was evident across groups, with IL-1 returning to near-baseline most rapidly in PS- and Sil-treated animals by day 21, and one week later in BMt-treated rats. Hep and untreated controls maintained higher values for longer. IL-6 peaked later than IL-1, normalizing by day 28 in the PS, Sil, and BMt groups alone. Microscopy demonstrated faster vascular normalization and earlier collagen and elastic-fiber restoration with PS, followed by Sil and BMt, while Hep improved matrix architecture only during later stages. Conclusions Overall, PS produced the most favorable and accelerated recovery pattern, Sil and BMt provided moderate benefit, and Hep displayed slower reparative capacity.