Abstract

Thread coatings on suture implants are designed to enhance biocompatibility and biodegradability, supporting wound healing by reducing inflammation and accelerating collagen density. Ascorbic acid, an antioxidant found in specific coatings, can help to increase collagen density. One specific antioxidant is derived from the calabash fruit (Crescentia cujete-Linnaeus). Using a rat model, this study evaluated the effectiveness of calabash fruit extract (CFE) as a suture material for skin implants. The experiment was conducted with 16 female rats, each 12 months old and weighing 300 grams. The rats were randomly divided into four groups, including P1 (control), P2 (cannula), P3 (implanted with polydioxanone), and P4 (implanted with polydioxanone coated with 100% calabash fruit extract). The sutures were implanted on both the left and right sides of the rats' back skin. Skin samples were collected on days 3 and 7 and analyzed for histopathology, collagenization, and the immunoreactivity of interleukin-6 and fibroblast growth factor. Group P4 showed better histopathological score, collagenization, and the percentage of IL-6's immunoreactivity and FGF than the other groups. Histopathological analysis indicated reduced inflammation, smaller intradermal wound diameters, and increased fibroblasts and collagen density in P4 compared to P3 (the group with PDO without CFE coating). Additionally, P4 displayed better IL-6 and FGF immunoreactivity than the other groups. This study demonstrated that CFE can enhance skin quality following suture implantation. The significant benefits of CFE on skin histopathology, collagenization, IL-6, and FGF immunoreactivity offer promise for its potential applications in wound healing.