Biochemical and cellular effects of squalene on human gingival fibroblasts in an in vitro wound healing model

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Background Squalene, a natural isoprenoid and an intermediate in cholesterol synthesis, has anti-inflammatory and skin-protective effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of squalene on the cellular viability of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF), and wound closure, the expression levels of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), type-I and type-III collagen in an in vitro wound healing model. Methods Squalene was used at concentrations of 10 µM (SQ1 Group) and 100 µM (SQ2 Group). The cell viability cytotoxicity to HGF was assessed using the MTT assay at 24, 48, and 72 hours. Scratch assay was used to evaluate wound healing at baseline, 24, 48, and 72 hours. The expressions of TGF-β, VEGF, type-I and type-III collagen were evaluated using the ELISA at 24, 48 and 72 hours. Results No cytotoxic effects were observed in groups. A significant reduction in remaining wound area was observed in the SQ2 group at 24 hours and in both the SQ1 and SQ2 groups at 48 hours compared to the control group (p Conclusions Considering its non-cytotoxic profile on HGF and its effects on TGF-β, type-I, and type-III collagen expression, squalene appears to facilitate wound healing by promoting wound closure.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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