Comparative Evaluation of Propolis, Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles, and Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Microvesicles on Full-Thickness Cutaneous Wounds in Donkeys

Objective: This study aimed to determine the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell-derived microvesicles (MVs), zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles, and propolis for the treatment of full-thickness cutaneous wounds in donkeys. Methods: Thirty healthy adult donkeys, both male and female, aged between 3-15 years, were selected for this study. The animals were randomly divided into five groups: a positive control group, a negative control group, an MVs-treated group, a ZnO nanoparticles-treated group, and a propolis-treated group. The intervention's effects were assessed at 21st and 42nd days post-wounding through histopathological evaluations while clinical observations was done every week. Clinical evaluation included monitoring wound closure, reduction in wound size, and absence of infection. Histopathological evaluation focused on key indicators of wound healing such as proliferation of fibrous connective tissue, collagen deposition, and epithelial migration. Results: The results revealed that the MVs, ZnO nanoparticles, and propolis treatments significantly enhanced wound healing compared to the control groups. These treatments were particularly effective in promoting the proliferation of fibrous connective tissue, enhancing collagen deposition, and facilitating epithelial migration, which are critical factors in wound healing. Among the treatments, propolis, ZnO nanoparticles, and MVs demonstrated superior wound healing capabilities with minimal scar tissue formation. Conclusion: The use of mesenchymal stem cell-derived microvesicles, zinc oxide nanoparticles, and propolis shows promising potential for accelerating the healing of fullthickness cutaneous wounds in donkeys, suggesting their potential application in veterinary and possibly human medicine. Further research is recommended to explore the underlying mechanisms and long-term benefits of these treatments.