Botulinum toxin type a inhibits connective tissue growth factor expression in fibroblasts derived from hypertrophic scar.

Abstract

Botulinum toxin type A (BTXA) can inhibit the growth of hypertrophic scars, but the molecular mechanism for this action is unknown. In addition to reducing the tension around the wound by stimulating temporary denervation, a growing body of evidence suggests that BTXA is involved in regulating the cell cycle and decreasing transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expression in the fibroblasts of hypertrophic scars. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a downstream regulator of TGF-β1 function and an independent mediator of scarring and fibrosis. The effects of BTXA on CTGF in hypertrophic scar still are unknown. This study aimed to explore the effect of BTXA on CTGF in fibroblasts derived from hypertrophic scar and to elucidate its actual mechanism further.