Topical application of beta-blockers accelerates epithelialization to mesh skin grafted full-thickness burn in sheep

Abstract

Aim: Beta-adrenergic receptor blockers are conventionally used for the treatment of hypertension, tachycardia, and glaucoma. Research has shown that beta-blockers can accelerate wound epithelialization. In this study, we tested the efficacy of the beta-blocker timolol in an ovine model of grafted full-thickness burn wound healing, which closely mimics clinical scenarios.

Methods: Six full-thickness burn wounds were created on the sheep’s posterior surface. Twenty-four hours later, eschars were excised and meshed skin was grafted (Day0). The wounds in the treatment group received topical application of timolol. Blood flow was measured using a blood perfusion imager. Cardiovascular hemodynamics and blood glucose levels were recorded daily. The epithelialization rate on Day 14 was determined by planimetric assay and analyzed by paired t-test. The days that the epithelialization rate exceeded 85%, 90%, and 95% were analyzed by survival analysis. To assess the potential influence of TGFβ, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), or myofibroblast activation (MFA) on wound healing, the RNA abundance of gene products related to these pathways was measured by reverse transcription and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results: The epithelialization rate on Day 14 was significantly higher in the treatment group. The days that the epithelialization rate exceeded 85%, 90%, and 95% were significantly shorter in the treatment group. There was no significant difference in wound blood flow or RNA abundance related to TGFβ, EMT, or MFA-related pathways among the groups at any time point.

Conclusion: The results demonstrate that the beta-blocker timolol accelerates epithelialization of mesh skin grafted full-thickness burn wounds through a mechanism other than improving wound blood flow.

Keywords

Beta-blocker / wound healing / burn / mesh skin graft

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