Effects of antisense oligodeoxynucleotide to type I collagen gene on hypertrophic scars in the transplanted nude mouse model

Background: Antisense nucleic acids are effective in inhibiting harmful or uncontrolled gene expression. We had previously proved that the antisense DNA to type I collagen could effectively inhibit the synthesis of collagen type I in cultured hypertrophic scar fibroblasts, suggesting a potential role in anti‐scarring, but there are no published reports of its effect on scar in the transplanted nude mouse model. Aims: To investigate the effects of antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ASODN) to type I collagen gene on hypertrophic scars in the transplanted nude mouse model and clarify the potential of ASODN for the treatment of scars. Methods: The nude mouse model of hypertrophic scar was created and subjected to daily injections with ASODN and Lipofectamine™ for 2 ,4 or 6 weeks. We then examined the scars for changes in histopathological characteristics. The effects of ASODN on type I collagen gene expression were examined by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and Western blots. Results: The ASODN could remarkably alleviate the scar in the nude mouse model and consistently inhibit type I collagen gene expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Conclusion: ASODN was effective in downregulating type I collagen gene expression and could prove to be useful in the treatment of scars.