In silico and in vitro insights into the wound-healing potential of syringic acid: protective and regenerative effects on human fibroblasts

This study aimed to investigate the wound-healing potential of syringic acid (SA) through integrated in silico and in vitro approaches using human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Network pharmacology analysis identified myeloperoxidase (MPO), a key enzyme involved in oxidative stress and inflammation, as a primary target of SA. Computational predictions also indicated favorable pharmacokinetic and ADMET properties. In vitro experiments were conducted using SA at concentrations of 50–400 µM. Cell viability was assessed by MTT and LDH assays, while antioxidant and inflammatory responses were evaluated by measuring SOD, CAT, MDA, TNF-α, IL-1β, TGF-β, iNOS, and hydroxyproline levels. SA treatment significantly enhanced fibroblast viability and exhibited strong antioxidant effects, as demonstrated by increased SOD and CAT activities and reduced MDA levels. Additionally, SA suppressed pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, and iNOS) while upregulating TGF-β expression. Importantly, SA promoted collagen synthesis, evidenced by increased hydroxyproline content. Among the tested doses, 100–200 µM showed the most pronounced effects. Overall, these findings demonstrate that SA facilitates wound healing by improving cellular viability, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and enhancing collagen production. This study highlights SA as a promising multi-target therapeutic candidate for wound repair, although further in vivo and safety studies are required to support its clinical application.