Effect of a DACC dressing on the growth properties and proliferation rate of cultured fibroblasts

Objective: To study the morphology and proliferation of cultured fibroblasts in combination with an experimental wound-healing model using cultured fibroblasts, with and without the presence of a hydrophobic, dialkyl carbamoyl chloride (DACC) dressing (Sorbact;Abigo Medical AB). Method: Human dermal fibroblasts were cultured and cell morphology and viability were investigated. Proliferation was investigated using an XTT assay. An experimental wound-healing model was employed, whereby mechanical damage was inflicted to the surface of cultured fibroblasts. The healing and closure of the wound was then monitored with and without the presence of the DACC dressing. Results: Fibroblasts did not adhere easily to the dressing material. The presence of the DACC dressing increased the average proliferation rate of cultured fibroblasts by 50% compared with the untreated control medium (p<0.05). The DACC dressing significantly increased the healing rate by more than 100% after 72 hours (p < 0.05) in the experimental model of wound healing, compared with the medium only. Conclusion:The enhanced wound healing observed in different types of wounds using the DACC dressing might be explained by an increase in cell growth and proliferation rate of cells in the wound area.