The impact of propolis-silver nanoparticles coated sutures versus conventional sutures on early intraoral wound healing in healthy and diabetic rats: a preliminary histological study

Optimal wound healing is crucial in oral surgery, particularly in compromised conditions. Diabetes mellitus is associated with impaired wound healing due to reduced vascularization, immune dysfunction, and altered collagen deposition. Propolis, a bioactive resin produced by honeybees, has demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pro-healing properties. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of propolis-silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) coated sutures on early wound healing in the oral mucosa of healthy and diabetic rats through histological assessments. Propolis-silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized and examined using FTIR. The propolis-AgNPs then used to coat polyglycolic acid (PGA) sutures. Before using the sutures in the experimental surgery, sutures Tensile Strength and SEM Analysis were performed. 12 Sprague-Dawley female rats (6 healthy, 6 diabetic) were used to create bilateral buccal mucosa punch incisions, with one side sutured using the propolis-AgNPs-coated PGA and the other with non-coated PGA sutures as a control. Wound healing was assessed after seven days through histological analysis using hematoxylin & eosin and Masson's trichrome staining. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Fisher's exact test, and Welch's t test (p ≤ 0.05 considered significant). In healthy rats, propolis-coated sutures significantly improved collagen fiber organization and mature collagen deposition (p = 0.030). Although diabetic rats did not show statistically significant differences (p > 0.05), a trend toward enhanced collagen fiber alignment and mature collagen formation was observed. A slight reduction in blood vessel formation was noted in both groups. Propolis-AgNPs-coated sutures demonstrated enhanced collagen organization in healthy rats and showed potential for improving wound healing in diabetic models.