Efficacy of Patin (Pangasius sp.) gelatin on macrophage and fibroblast proliferation in traumatic ulcer rats

Traumatic ulcers are oral mucosa lesions caused by thermal, mechanical, and chemical factors. Long-term topical medication use can lead to fungal resistance. Patin fish skin contains glycine and glutamic acid, which can enhance macrophage activation and fibroblast proliferation, aiding wound healing. This study aimed to determine the effect of Patin skin gelatin on increasing macrophages and fibroblasts and reducing the diameter of traumatic ulcers in Wistar rats. An experimental laboratory study with a post-test-only control group design was conducted. Ulcers were induced on the labial mucosa of the mandible in rats using thermal induction. Treatments included a placebo gel and Patin skin gelatin at concentrations of 10%, 20%, and 30% for 7 days. Rats were euthanized on days 3, 5, and 7, and ulcerated mucosal tissue was biopsied to count macrophages and fibroblasts using an Olympus microscope. Results showed significant macrophage and fibroblast count differences between the gelatin and placebo treatment groups. Patin skin gelatin at all concentrations increased the number of fibroblasts and decreased ulcer diameters significantly compared to the control group (p<0.05). Patin skin gelatin effectively enhanced fibroblast cell proliferation and reduced ulcer size over the 7-day treatment period. The 10% concentration of Patin skin gelatin showed the most significant increase in fibroblast count and the greatest reduction in ulcer diameter.