Recombinant human transforming growth factor-beta 1 (rhTGF-beta 1) enhances healing and strength of granulation skin wounds.

A new animal model to study secondary intention wound healing and the effects of topically applied rhTGF-beta 1 was developed. A time course study was performed of full thickness 6 mm punch wounds placed on the backs of anesthetized pigs and treated once with either 3% methylcellulose or rhTGF-beta 1 in 3% methylcellulose or left untreated. Wounds receiving rhTGF-beta 1 had enhanced tensile strength at days 4 and 7 compared to controls. Studies of the response on days 4 and 7 to graded doses of rhTGF-beta 1 showed that a dose of 250 or 2500 ng rhTGF-beta 1 gave a similar enhanced wound strength, while 25 ng rhTGF-beta 1 had no effect. Blood flow to treated granulating wounds as measured by 141Ce microspheres indicate an increase in flow in wounds treated with 250, 500 or 2500 ng rhTGF-beta 1 compared to controls. These results indicate a possible use for rhTGF-beta 1 in enhancing wound healing clinically.