Combined effects of honey and silver nanoparticles on wound healing in human dermal fibroblast cells

Abstract

Background: Wound healing is a complex process requiring coordinated cellular responses. Honey and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are well-known for their potential to heal wounds. However, there is little evidence of their combined impact on wound healing in fibroblast cells. This study aimed to investigate the combined effects of two types of honey with AgNPs on bacterial growth inhibition and wound healing in human dermal fibroblast cells. Method: Honey samples were characterized based on phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and protein levels. The AgNPs were synthesized and characterized by dynamic light scattering, ultraviolet-visible, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction. Antibacterial activity was assessed by checkerboard assay. The effect of honey, AgNPs, and their combination on fibroblast cell viability and wound healing was evaluated. Quantitative real-time PCR was conducted to evaluate the mRNA expression of growth factors. Results: Our results showed that Barberry honey significantly increased fibroblast cell growth, wound healing, and expression of FGF2, TGFβ1, COL1A1, and VEGFA genes compared to commercial honey. Combination of honey with AgNPs significantly increased VEGFA gene expression compared to either agent alone. Barberry honey and AgNPs also showed strong antibacterial effects individually. However, their combination had no synergistic effect. Conclusion: These findings suggest that Barberry honey and its combination with AgNPs could serve as effective agents for promoting the fibroblast wound healing process. However, more in vitro and in vivo research is needed to investigate further mechanisms of Barberry honey alone and in combination with AgNPs in wound healing.