Evaluation of keratinised gingival fibroblast proliferation after Protefix® gel application, in the aspect of wound healing in elderly patients

Introduction
Atrophic mucous membranes in elderly patients become more susceptible to all kinds of injuries: chemical, biological, and mechanical, including iatrogenic. Thus, the healing processes are difficult and challenging. Therefore, it is important to implement preparations to support tissue regeneration in postoperative recommendations. Acceleration of the recovery process would significantly improve the quality of life of elderly patients.

Aim
The aim of the pilot study was the evaluation of the keratinised gingival fibroblast proliferation process after the use of Protefix® gel in vitro.

Material and methods
An in vitro pilot study of human fibroblasts obtained from healthy donors and isolated from keratinised gingival tissues. The primary cell line of human fibroblasts was stimulated by 5%, 50%, and 100% Protefix® gel for 20 min and 24 h.

Results
In this in vitro pilot study, it was shown that Protefix® gel significantly stimulated the proliferation of human fibroblasts from primary culture.

Conclusions
Summarising, the conducted pilot study showed significant stimulation of proliferation of human fibroblasts after exposure to Protefix® gel at a concentration of 5%. The obtained results indicate that the tested product may promote the healing of surgical wounds, which is especially important in elderly patients in whom the healing process is more complicated.