Wound Healing Mechanisms and Interventions in Murine Models

Wound healing in murine models follows a coordinated sequence of haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and remodelling phases. Platelet aggregation and clot formation set the stage for immune cell recruitment and clearance of debris. Neutrophils and macrophages orchestrate an inflammatory milieu, shaping the transition to a proliferative phase characterised by fibroblast activation, angiogenesis and extracellular matrix deposition. Re-epithelialisation restores barrier function, while fibroblasts and myofibroblasts generate granulation tissue and contract the wound bed. In the remodelling stage, collagen maturation and matrix reorganisation confer tensile strength and functionality. Mouse and rat models allow genetic and pharmacological manipulation of key mediators, including growth factors, cytokines and oxidative pathways, yielding insights into pathologies such as diabetes-impaired repair and chronic wounds.

Interventions in murine systems range from topical agents and biomaterials to systemic modulators of inflammation and oxidative stress. Novel hydrogels loaded with bioactive molecules, plant-derived extracts with antioxidant or anti-inflammatory properties and cell-based therapies have been evaluated for their capacity to accelerate healing. Advanced imaging and histological quantification techniques enable objective assessment of collagen architecture and tissue cellularity. The adaptability of murine models permits preclinical screening of therapeutic compounds and the dissection of molecular networks underlying tissue regeneration.

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Wound Healing Mechanisms and Interventions in Murine Models publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in wound healing mechanisms and interventions in murine models across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Re-epithelialisation: Restoration of the epidermal layer by keratinocyte migration and proliferation over the wound bed.

Extracellular matrix: Network of collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans that provides structural support and biochemical cues during tissue repair.

Granulation tissue: Highly vascularised, provisional matrix formed by fibroblasts and endothelial cells during the proliferative phase.

Oxidative stress: Imbalance between reactive oxygen species production and antioxidant defences, influencing inflammation and tissue damage.

Fibroblast: Mesenchymal cell responsible for synthesising collagen and extracellular matrix proteins in the wound stroma.

References

1. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Brassica oleracea Accelerates Third-Degree Burn Healing in Rats. Cosmetics (2024).
2. High‐Fat Diet and Alcohol Intake Promotes Inflammation and Impairs Skin Wound Healing in Wistar Rats. Mediators of Inflammation (2018).
3. Hydroethanolic Extract of Strychnos pseudoquina Accelerates Skin Wound Healing by Modulating the Oxidative Status and Microstructural Reorganization of Scar Tissue in Experimental Type I Diabetes. BioMed Research International (2017).