STUDY OF THE WOUND-HEALING ACTIVITY OF A HYDROGEL IMMOBILIZED WITH 6-AMINOPURINE

Rapid healing of traumatic and postoperative wounds in farm animals remains an important veterinary problem due to infection risk, dehydration of tissues and slow regeneration under field conditions. In this study a bioactive hydrogel containing immobilized 6-aminopurine was developed and its wound-healing activity was evaluated. The hydrogel matrix was obtained from biocompatible polysaccharides followed by ionic crosslinking and incorporation of the active compound to ensure prolonged release. Physicochemical properties of the material (swelling capacity, moisture retention and biodegradability) were characterized, and release kinetics of 6-aminopurine from the matrix were determined in physiological medium. Biological activity was assessed on experimental skin wounds in farm animals by monitoring inflammation phase duration, granulation tissue formation, epithelialization rate and microbial contamination. Application of the hydrogel created a moist protective environment, reduced exudation and prevented secondary infection. Compared with untreated control wounds, the treated group demonstrated faster granulation, earlier epithelial layer formation and shorter healing period. The regenerating tissues showed reduced edema and more organized collagen fibers. The results indicate that immobilization of 6-aminopurine in a hydrogel matrix provides controlled delivery of the bioactive compound and significantly enhances reparative processes. The developed preparation can be considered a promising antibiotic-free regenerative veterinary material for treatment of wounds and inflammatory skin lesions in livestock.