Can a combination of nanofat and freeze-dried human amniotic membrane enhance full-thickness wound healing? An animal study using rabbit models

Abstract

Previous studies have explored nanofat stimulating tissue regeneration and maturation, promoting remodeling through its rich content of growth factors and stem cells; however, comprehensive data on its use in full-thickness wounds remains limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of combining nanofat with freeze-dried human amniotic membrane (FDHAM) for treating full-thickness wounds in a rabbit model. An animal experimental study using a post-test control group design was conducted. Thirty-six male New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group (received a combination of nanofat and FDHAM) and the control group (received FDHAM alone). Each group was subdivided to evaluate effects on days 3 and 7. Macroscopic evaluations of wound healing, microscopic assessment of epithelialization and measurement of epidermal growth factor (EGF) levels in the wounds were conducted on days 3 and 7 post-injury. The present study indicated that the combination treatment significantly elevated EGF levels in the wounds on both days 3 and 7 (with p<0.001 for both assessment time points). The combination of nanofat-FDHAM did not significantly accelerate epithelialization on either day 3 or 7. This study highlights that combining nanofat with FDHAM did not significantly speed up epithelialization of full-thickness wounds within the first seven days; however, it notably increased EGF levels, suggesting that nanofat may enhance the wound's biological environment.