Effects of bFGF on suppression of collagen type I accumulation and scar tissue formation during wound healing after mucoperiosteal denudation of rat palate

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on collagen changes after mucoperiosteal denudation of rat palate. Material and methods. A total of 36 male Wistar rats were divided into control, scar, sham, and bFGF groups. In the scar, sham, and bFGF groups, lateral palatal mucoperiosteum was excised to form scar tissue on the palate. In the bFGF group, bFGF solution was injected into the operated area 1 week postoperatively. At 6 weeks postoperatively, the distribution of collagen type I and the 3-dimensional structure of collagen fibers were investigated under immunofluorescent and scanning electron microscopy. Result. In the bFGF group, weakly immunostained submucosa was clearly distinguishable from the strongly immunostained cervical periodontal ligament and gingiva. Collagen fibers running from submucosal tissue into the surface of underlying palatal bone comprised loosely arranged collagen fibrils. Lumen structures in collagen fibers resembled those in the control group. Conclusion. Administration of bFGF for suppression of collagen type I generation could suppress scar tissue formation and reduce connective strength with adjacent teeth and palatal bone.