Effect of topical Apis trigona honey on FGF-2 expression, fibroblast, and capillary blood vessel counts in post-extraction wound healing

Abstract

Background: Tooth extraction causes a wound in the tooth socket that may lead to complications and delayed healing. The acceleration of wound healing can be observed through fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) expression, the number of fibroblasts, and the number of capillary blood vessels. Trigona honey, produced by the stingless bee Apis trigona, contains flavonoids with antibacterial and antioxidant properties and is traditionally used to support healing. This study aimed to determine the effect of topical Apis trigona honey on FGF-2 expression, fibroblast count, and capillary blood vessel count in post-extraction wound healing. Methods: This laboratory experimental study used 32 male guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) divided into a control group (n=16) and a treatment group (n=16). Following incisor extraction, the treatment group received 0.5 mL of topical Apis trigona honey, while the control group received sterile distilled water only. On day three, the animals were sacrificed and mandibular tissue was harvested. FGF-2 expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry, while fibroblast and capillary blood vessel counts were assessed with haematoxylin-eosin staining. Data were analysed using an independent t-test (95% confidence interval, p<0.05). Results: FGF-2 expression did not differ significantly between the control and treatment groups (p=0.078). However, the treatment group showed significantly higher fibroblast counts (p<0.001) and capillary blood vessel counts (p<0.001) compared with the control group. Conclusion: Topical application of Apis trigona honey did not increase FGF-2 expression but significantly increased fibroblast and capillary blood vessel counts, suggesting its potential as a supportive agent in post-extraction wound healing.