Healing mechanism of PSO on deep second-degree burn wounds in a porcine model.

Abstract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: PSO (Plant burn ointment) is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine formula. PSO is known for detoxifying, reducing swelling, promoting tissue regeneration, and relieving pain. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to identify the active constituents of PSO and investigate its anti-inflammatory and burn wound healing activities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The effects of PSO on burns were evaluated using a burn-injured Bama minipig model. UHPLC-MS was employed to identify its active components. Tissue staining and immunohistochemistry were used to observe structural changes during the healing process. ELISA kits and the WST-8 assay were used to measure the levels of oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, and growth factors. RESULTS: UHPLC-MS analysis identified seven potential active constituents in PSO: oxymatrine, aloesin, chlorogenic acid, resveratrol, baicalin, berberine, and osthole. Burn wounds in all groups were observed and recorded. The PSO group showed the fastest wound healing rate. Histological analyses confirmed that PSO accelerated skin healing. In the wound tissue of the PSO group, the levels of TGF-β, VEGF, EGF, and SOD remained consistently elevated. In contrast, the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were significantly reduced. CONCLUSIONS: UHPLC-MS analysis identified potential active constituents in PSO. PSO improved burn wound healing, as shown by wound closure rates, histological staining, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and WST-8 assays. It reduced inflammation and oxidative stress. It also supported skin tissue regeneration. The study identifies both the active components of PSO and its pharmacological actions in burn wound healing.