The role of Manalagi apple (Malus sylvestris Mill.) extract gel in fibronectin expression during traumatic ulcer healing

Abstract

Traumatic ulcer is open wound caused by injury to the oral mucosa. Fibronectin, a multifunctional glycoprotein, has been reported to play a crucial role in early wound healing by promoting fibroblast migration. Several studies have shown that Manalagi apple (Malus sylvestris Mill.) contains bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and wound healing properties. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effect of Manalagi apple extract gel on fibronectin expression in traumatic ulcer healing. This was a laboratory experimental study with a post-test only control group design. A total of 10 rats (Rattus norvegicus) were randomly divided into a placebo gel control group and a treatment group receiving 10% Manalagi apple extract gel. Fibronectin expression was then evaluated using immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, and analyzed with the Mann–Whitney test. The results showed a significant difference in fibronectin expression between the treatment and control groups (p = 0.007). The application of 10% Manalagi apple extract gel significantly increased fibronectin expression during traumatic ulcer healing.