[Distribution and expression of transforming growth factor beta and their receptors in hypertrophic scar].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the role of transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) and their receptors (TGF beta-R) in the pathogenesis of hypertrophic scar.

METHODS: Specimens of normal skin and hypertrophic scar were harvested and the distribution and the expression of the TGF beta and TGF beta-R were determined by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization method.

RESULTS: The expressions of TGF beta and TGF beta-RII in normal skin were higher than the expression of TGF beta 1, TGF beta 2 and TGF-RI. But in hypertrophic scar the results were on the contrary. The mRNA expressions of TGF beta 1, TGF beta 2 and TGFRI were evidently increased with decreased mRNA expression of TGF-beta 3 and TGFR II in the hypertrophic scar when compared with those in the normal skin.

CONCLUSION: The expression of TGF-beta (beta 1, beta 2, beta 3) and their receptors in different levels during the process of wound healing might be related to the formation of hypertrophic scars.