Fatty Acid Applications in Cutaneous Wound Healing
Summary
Fatty acids and their derivatives are integral to the cutaneous wound-healing process, modulating inflammation, cell proliferation, angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodelling. Both topical and systemic delivery of specific fatty acids—particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated species—have been shown to influence the kinetics and quality of repair. ω-6 fatty acids such as linoleic acid serve as precursors of eicosanoids that regulate leukocyte recruitment and vascular permeability, while ω-3 species have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and pro-resolution effects. Medium-chain and monounsaturated fatty acids also exert direct effects on keratinocyte and fibroblast function, including the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) which govern gene programmes involved in collagen deposition and angiogenic signalling. Advances in formulation science have enabled the incorporation of fatty acids into dressings, emulsions and polymer conjugates, enhancing bioavailability and sustained release at the wound site. The global burden of chronic wounds, particularly in diabetic and elderly populations, underscores the translational potential of fatty acid–based therapies as accessible, cost-effective interventions with a favourable safety profile.
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Fatty Acid Applications in Cutaneous Wound Healing publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in fatty acid applications in cutaneous wound healing across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
ω-6 fatty acids: Polyunsaturated fatty acids that serve as precursors to pro-inflammatory eicosanoids.
PPAR-γ: A nuclear receptor activated by fatty acids that regulates genes involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation.
Angiogenesis: The formation of new blood vessels, critical for supplying nutrients and cells to the healing tissue.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS): Oxygen-derived radicals that modulate cell signalling but may cause damage when in excess.
Extracellular matrix remodelling: The reorganisation of collagen and other structural proteins to restore tissue architecture.
References
- Wound Healing and Omega‐6 Fatty Acids: From Inflammation to Repair. Mediators of Inflammation (2018).
- Topical anti-inflammatory activity of palmitoleic acid improves wound healing. PLOS ONE (2018).
- Oral Administration of Linoleic Acid Induces New Vessel Formation and Improves Skin Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats. PLOS ONE (2016).
- Wound Healing Efficacy of Cucurbitaceae Seed Oils in Rats: Comprehensive Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Histological Studies Tackling AGE/RAGE and Nrf2/Ho-1 Cue. Pharmaceuticals (2024).
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