Molecular Study of Wound Healing Activity of <i>Quercus brantii</i> (Persian Oak) Fruit Extract in the Presence of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

Abstract

Background: The wound-healing process is complex and involves many genes responsible for various stages. Investigating the expression of these genes can provide valuable insights into the efficacy of different wound-healing strategies, including herbal materials and nanoparticles. Objectives: In this study, the molecular effects of Quercus brantii (Persian Oak) extract and Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were assessed on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) transcripts in the wound healing process. Methods: Excision model wounds on the backs of 48 adult male mice were treated with ointments including Oak extract (1%, 5%, and 20%) and ZnO NPs (0.1%) for 14 days. Changes in the expression of the VEGF and MMP2 genes were analyzed using real‑time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The results showed that Oak extract significantly increased the expression of VEGF and MMP2 transcripts in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Also, ZnO NPs at a dose of 0.1% significantly increased the expression of VEGF and MMP2 genes. The ZnO NPs did not significantly change the effect of Oak extract on target gene expression in the skin wounds treated with Oak extract 1.0% plus ZnO NPs 0.1%. Conclusions: According to the above results, it seems that part of the wound healing effects of Oak extract and ZnO NPs overlap and occur through increasing the expression of VEGF and MMP2 genes. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the combination of these two drugs and their clinical use, it is necessary to investigate other factors affecting wound healing.