The Role of Clitoria ternatea Nanogel (CTNG) in Burn Wound Healing in a Rat Model

Abstract

Introduction: Burn injuries trigger a strong inflammatory response. Continuous inflammation can delay the wound-healing process. Clitoria ternatea is known to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities; however, its effectiveness may be improved through nanogel formulation.

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effect of Clitoria ternatea nanogel (CTNG) on interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and fibroblast counts in a rat burn wound model.

Methods: This experimental study used a post-test only control group design using 30 male Wistar rats divided into five groups: normal control, negative control K (–), K1 treated with sulfadiazine, K2 treated with 2.5% CTNG, and K3 treated with 5% CTNG. A first-degree burn was induced on the dorsal area of the rats, and topical treatment was conducted for 14 days. The evaluated parameters included tissue IL-6 levels measured by ELISA and fibroblast counts assessed using Hematoxylin–Eosin (HE) staining. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by post hoc tests.

Results: The K (–) group shows the highest IL-6 levels and the lowest fibroblast counts. The K2 and K3 groups show lower mean IL-6 levels accompanied by higher fibroblast counts compared with the K (–) and K1 groups. The K3 group treated with 5% CTNG shows significantly lower IL-6 levels and higher fibroblast counts than the K1 and K2 treatment groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Administration of CTNG significantly influences burn wound healing as indicated by reduced IL-6 levels and increased fibroblast numbers, with 5% CTNG identified as the most effective dose.