The in vitro enhancement of rat myofibroblast contractility by alterations to the pH of the physiological solution.

Wound contraction achieved by myofibroblast contraction is vital for the repair of cutaneous wounds. Many changes occur during tissue repair one of which is a lowering of pH. This study was designed to determine if myofibroblast contractility, as mimicked by using in vitro preparations, was sensitive to alterations of the pH. The responses of strips of rat superficial fascia when stimulated in vitro by adenosine, calcium and potassium ions, and mepyramine in physiological solutions at pH 5.5, 6.1, 7.3 and 8.1 were clearly pH dependent with acidic media producing an enhanced in vitro contractility. Perhaps modifying the pH of the wound environment could enhance wound contraction.