Data Sheet 1_Curcumin-berberine ointment based on multifunctional carrier accelerates wound healing in a translational porcine model of tail-biting injuries: a controlled study against oxytetracycline.pdf

BackgroundChronic wounds represent a significant clinical burden, with limited efficacy of conventional therapies, particularly in wounds complicated by necrosis and biofilms. This study evaluated the efficacy of MTC-U1 ointment based on a patented Multifunctional Carrier containing Curcuma longa extract (3% w/w) and berberine hydrochloride (1.6% w/w) in a porcine model of chronic infected wounds compared to standard oxytetracycline therapy.
MethodsFourteen Polish Large White fatteners with Grade 4 tail-biting injuries were randomized into two groups (n=7): MTC-U1 ointment or oxytetracycline spray (3.84%), applied twice daily for 21 days without surgical intervention. Wound healing was assessed using a modified Wilson scoring system (0–35 points). Secondary outcomes included infrared thermography, hematological parameters (neutrophils, haptoglobin), and local tolerance.
ResultsThe healing time (from necrotic tissue sequestration to complete scab formation) was significantly shorter in the MTC-U1 group compared to the control group (9.57 ± 2.64 vs. 13.43 ± 2.88 days; p = 0.023), representing a 3.86-day (29%) reduction. A statistically significant decrease in wound scores was observed in the MTC-U1 group beginning on the second day after the procedure, with a p-value less than 0.01. Thermographic assessment revealed significantly lower temperature at the tail base region of interest in the MTC-U1 group on Day 2 (37.2 °C ± 2.3 °C vs. 39.9 °C ± 0.7 °C; p < 0.05). Hematological findings confirmed the resolution of inflammation, as evidenced by the normalization of neutrophil counts in the MTC-U1 group (14.54 → 8.79 × 109/L; p < 0.05), while they remained elevated in the control group. Serum haptoglobin levels were significantly lower in the MTC-U1 group at endpoint (0.74 ± 0.66 vs. 1.86 ± 0.87 mg/mL; p < 0.05). No irritation reactions were observed, as evidenced by a mean irritation index of less than 0.5.
ConclusionThe MTC-U1 ointment significantly accelerated chronic wound healing compared to antibiotic therapy, demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects confirmed by thermographic and hematological assessments. These findings support further preclinical validation and clinical trials in patients with hard-to-heal wounds.