Evaluation of apoptotic caspase levels in estimation of the wound age

WOS: 000432533300004Objectives: We aimed to investigate the potential use of the expression of apoptotic signaling pathway genes of rat in skin wound age estimation. Material and methods: For this purpose, we formed cutting tool injuries using a scalpel in an experimental model. Then, we assessed Caspase 3, 8 and 9 mRNA levels by using quantitative real-time PCR and protein levels by using immunohistochemistry in rat skin wounds. In addition, we used TUNEL assay to detect apoptotic cells. Results: We observed that Caspase 3 mRNA level significantly increased (2.1 +/- 0.4 folds) on day 3 (p < 0.05) and Caspase 8 mRNA level significantly increased (1.8 +/- 0.2 folds) on day 5 (p < 0.05). Caspase 9 mRNA level increased (1.9 +/- 0.1 folds) on day 3 and (2.5 +/- 0.4 folds) on day 5 (p < 0.05). The percentage values of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) and inflammatory mononuclear cells (IMCs) were observed after immunohistochemical staining by Caspase 3, 8, 9 antibodies. Our immunohistochemistry results were found to be consistent with the mRNA results observed. We reported a statistically significant increase in Caspase 3, 8 and 9-positive cells on days 3 and 5 after immunohistochemical staining as well. Conclusion: Our results suggest that time-dependent features of apoptotic factors might offer a potential tool in estimating wound age.Gazi University Research FoundationGazi University [01/2010-78]This study was supported by Gazi University Research Foundation, with the Project code number 01/2010-78