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Improving Muscle Healing after Injury

In this study researchers at the University of Pittsburgh used mice to show the effects of Suramin on scar tissue formation. Suramin is an anti-tumor drug. It prevents scar tissue from forming by binding to the receptors for growth factor (GF). Without GF, fibroblasts needed to fill in the damaged area are limited.

There were three groups of mice based on when Suramin was injected into the muscle. The main difference between groups was based on when the injection took place (zero, seven, or 14 days after muscle injury). A control group received a sham injection of saline.

Muscles were examined two weeks after the injection. The scientists looked at how much tissue healing and scarring were present in the muscle. They found very little change in scarring when Suramin was used 14 days after the injury. This is about the time when fibrosis begins to form. Higher doses of Suramin worked better than low doses. Muscle strength was also greater in the Suramin-treated muscles.

The results of this study may direct future treatment for muscle injuries. This could be very helpful for athletes with sports injuries. Improving muscle healing by blocking muscle fibrosis may get athletes back in play sooner.

References: Yi-Sheng Chan, MD, PhD, et al. The Use of Suramin, an Antifibrotic Agent, to Improve Muscle Recovery after Strain Injury. In The American Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery. January 2005. Vol. 33. No. 1. Pp. 43-51.

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