Comparing the wound healing properties of two antibacterial peptides, CM11 and FR7, using a rat model with an infected wound.

OBJECTIVE

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have received attention in recent years for dealing with wound infections. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of antimicrobial peptides FR7 and CM11 against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains in vitro and investigate their wound healing properties in vivo.

METHODS

The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of these peptides were determined using the microdilution method. Both peptides were evaluated for toxicity in L929 cells. Their antimicrobial activity and wound healing potency were tested in vivo. Wounds infected with MRSA were treated with the peptide gel or Mupirocin (positive control) or untreated (negative control). Wound healing was assessed by measuring wound contraction (days 3, 7, 10, 14, 17 and 21) and histopathological changes (days 3, 7, 14 and 21).

RESULTS

MRSA strain was inhibited by both AMPs at 8 μg/ml with minimal cytotoxicity to L929 cells. In vivo analysis showed higher wound contraction in the AMPs-treated groups compared to controls, with CM11 showing better results than FR7. Histopathological analysis indicated better wound healing in the CM11-treated group.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the antibacterial and wound healing potential of CM11 and FR7 peptides, with CM11 showing greater efficacy and potential for developing treatments for wound infections, especially those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains.