Gold Nanoparticles for Wound Healing in Animal Models

Abstract

Background: Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are increasingly studied for their potential to enhance wound healing, but their overall efficacy remains uncertain. Methods: We conducted a systematic meta-analysis (search date: 14 May 2025) across five databases. Included were randomized animal studies comparing GNPs to placebo, reporting wound closure percentages and relevant variance measures. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane and CAMARADES tools. Cohen’s d was used to estimate effect size under a random-effects model. Results: Thirty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled effect size was d = 4.52 (95% CI: 3.61 to 5.43; z = 9.73; p < 0.001), indicating a significant benefit of GNPs. Although heterogeneity was moderate to high, results consistently favored GNPs. Conclusion: GNPs significantly accelerate wound healing in animal models, supporting their potential as therapeutic agents.