D-ribose-L-cysteine supplementation enhances wound healing in a rodent model.

BACKGROUND

Wound healing and chronic wounds are serious public health issues. While wounds heal, cellular stores of antioxidants are depleted. d-ribose-l-cysteine (DRLC) is a precursor to the antioxidant glutathione. The effect of oral supplementation with DRLC on wound healing was studied in rats.

METHODS

A rodent model of calibrated wounding was used. Group A rats were given DLRC for 1 week before wounding and for 3, 7, or 14 days after wounding. Group B rats were given DRLC only after wounding. Control animals were given no supplement. Photographic comparisons were made to study wound edema and inflammation. Wound strength was determined by using a laser-vacuum device.

RESULTS

During healing, both Group A and B animals showed less edema and inflammation than Control. Group A animals had the weakest wounds at 3 days after surgery, but the strongest wounds after 14 days. Group B animals had similar wound strength to Control animals at 7 days, but stronger wounds after 14 days.

CONCLUSIONS

DRLC supplementation appears to reduce wound inflammation early after wounding and enhance wound strength by 14 days. This suggests that increased intracellular glutathione levels may improve and enhance wound healing.