The Cutaneous Inflammatory Response to Thermal Burn Injury in a Murine Model

This study aimed to profile the inflammatory response in a murine model of thermal burns, using C57Bl/6 mice. The research found that the burn injuries, created with a heated metal rod, healed within 2 weeks through contraction and re-epithelialization, similar to human burns. An immediate increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines was observed, along with an influx of neutrophils and a decrease in Langerhans and mast cells. Dendritic cells and macrophages, including inflammatory (M1) phenotypes, peaked at wound closure. Over 10 weeks, scars increased in size and thickness, but abnormal collagen ratios and macrophage populations normalized 3-4 weeks post-closure. This model was deemed promising for studying burn complications and testing new therapies.