The principles of wound healing

Abstract

Wound healing is an ever-changing field, as new insights are made into its mechanisms through basic science research, thus driving development of new therapies. In this paper, we present the current molecular models of wound healing and scar formation in the three phases: inflammation, proliferation and remodeling. New cellular signaling pathways such as mechanotransduction through the transforming growth factor-beta and integrin pathways have opened up various targets for wound therapy. Other therapies such as negative pressure devices and anti-microbial peptides are being improved as more data becomes available. Cutting edge treatments in gene therapy like Regranex are under heavy investigation, as are various treatments whose molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated such as electrostimulation and Substance P. A promising area in wound treatment research is the use of bone marrow derived stem cell therapy, where research in animal models has shown these stem cells are able to differentiate into keratinocytes. The field of wound therapy is at an exciting junction where advances in basic science will no doubt lead to many improvements in scar prevention and wound healing in the upcoming years.