Balms of selected species of Pinaceae and their influence on keratinocyte re-epithelialization in vitro

Exudates of Pinaceae are used in traditional medicine to treat wounds [1] [2]. The balms of Picea abies, Larix decidua and Pinus nigra were tested in a HaCaT keratinocyte based in vitro assay for their potential to boost re-epithelialization as measure for wound closure. As positive control served the pure compound lysophosphatidic acid (LPA, 10 µM) and extracts of several medicinal plants well known for their wound healing properties (birch, marigold, St. John’s wort, manuka honey). The cytotoxicity of the extracts was estimated by evaluating the metabolic activity and cell mass via the resazurin and crystal violet assay. Re-epithelialization was determined by disrupting a keratinocyte monolayer to simulate an injury. The cell free area was monitored after 24h exposure of three different sample concentrations (1, 3 and 10 µg/mL). Picea abies and Pinus nigra showed dose dependency, significant activity was measured for Larix decidua at 3 µg/mL.

Qualitative comparison of the three Pinaceae exudates is shown presenting TLC, LC-UV/DAD-MS and SFC-MS as suitable tools for quality assessment of these medicinally used plant products.

Publication History

Article published online:
13 December 2021

• References

• 1 Goels T.. et al. Norway spruce balm: Phytochemical composition and ability to enhance re-epithelialization in vitro. Planta Medica 2020; 86: 1080-1088
• 2 Jokinen J., Sipponen A. Refined spruce resin to treat chronic wounds: rebirth of an old folkloristic therapy. Adv Wound Care 2016; 5: 198-207