An Experimental Study of Fibroblast Suppression in Collagen Lattice

ABSTRACT

Fibroblasts are known as the key cells for wound contraction. In the plastic surgical field, wound contraction is one of the main concerns. Many drugs and treatment modalities have been tried to reduce the action of fibroblasts. To investigate the effects of minoxidil and griseofulvin on fibroblasts, fetal human fibroblasts were isolated from the anterior chest of normal fetus. Minoxidil, in addition to its effect on hypertension and hair growth and griseofulvin which has been used as antifungal agent were added on cultured fibroblasts. The morphological changes and numerical changes of the fibroblasts were observed by phase contrast microscopy. In low concentration, minoxidil does not inhibit the proliferation of fibroblasts but in high concentration, it inhibits the proliferation of fibroblasts and prevents the formation of proliferative cytoplasmic buds of fibroblasts. Griseofulvin inhibits the action of fibroblasts but not so significant as minoxidil. Also, they prevent the contraction of collagen lattice in high concentration. The importance of these findings is possible usage of these drugs to treat clinical fibrosis and hypertrophic scars. Further studies will be planned to learn more about a possible role of minoxidil and griseofulvin in prevention of wound contraction.