Molecular research: the effect of black fig (Ficus carica L.) leaf extract on inflammation in punch skin biopsy

Abstract

Although the pharmacological benefits of fig (Ficus carica) leaf, belonging to the Moraceae family, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties are well-documented, studies on their potential effects on wound healing and the molecular mechanisms involved in this process are limited. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the anti-inflammatory effects of black fig leaf on wound healing and its potential to promote dermal regeneration through histological and genetic analyses. Excisional skin wounds were created in Wistar albino rats, divided into three groups: control (C), cold cream (CC), and 5% black fig leaf cream (FCC). The gene expression levels of cytokines involved in the inflammatory process (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α) were evaluated using real-time PCR, and protein expression levels were assessed through immunohistochemistry. Histological evaluation of the wound site was performed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson trichrome staining. Molecular analysis showed that the 5% black fig leaf cream exhibited significantly higher anti-inflammatory activity than the control groups. Histopathological examination revealed increased collagen production, angiogenesis, and re-epithelialization, along with reduced inflammatory cell density and bleeding compared to controls. Due to its observed anti-inflammatory activity, the 5% black fig leaf cream may support skin wound healing and has the potential to be a therapeutic agent for skin wounds.

Keywords: Fig; IL-1β; IL-6; Skin; TNF-α; Wound healing.