Effects of thrombin peptides and thrombin on the release of TGF-β and VEGF from human fibroblasts

Objective To explore the effect of thrombin peptide 508 (TP508) and thrombin on the release of TGF-β and VEGF from cultured human fibroblasts( Lu13 ) in vitro. Methods TP508 and thrombin in different concentrations were added to the confluent cultured Lu13 and incubated for 8 to 24 hours. Then the supernatant was obtained by centrifugation, and the TGF-β 1, TGF-β 2 and VEGF contents were measured by ELISA. Results TGF-β 1 release from Lu13 was markedly increased by thrombin, but decreased obviously by TP508 ( P <0.05). A combinedation application of TP508 and thrombin showed a synergistic effect to the release of TGF-β₁, from Lu13. The release of TGF-β₂ was also increased( P <0.05) after thrombin treatment, while slightly decreased when incubated with 100ug/ml of TP508 ( P > 0.05). VEGF release was also stimulated by thrombin and inhibited by TP508. Conclusion The release of TGF-β 1, TGF-β 2 and VEGF from Lu13 could be stimulated by thrombin, and inhibited by TP508, which might be beneficial to reducing scar formation and enhancing the healing quality of the wound.