How to choose scar models for more efficient drug efficacy experiments

In preclinical pharmacological experiments, selecting appropriate scar models is crucial for improving experimental efficiency and ensuring the reliability of experimental results.

So, the three animal models of mice, rabbits, and pigs each have their own characteristics. How to choose them specifically?

1.Rat scar model

Low cost, fast reproduction and easy management, clear genetic background, convenient observation of drug efficacy

If the experimental budget is limited and large-scale samples are required, a rat scar model is a good choice. Rats have a fast reproductive rate, low cost, clear genetic background, and can quickly provide a large number of samples for experiments. The operation is relatively simple and suitable for preliminary drug screening or large-scale pharmacological research.

2.Rabbit scar model

High similarity in skin structure, stable scar formation, and wide applicability of drug formulations

If the experiment involves the study of topical drugs, a rabbit scar model would be more suitable. The skin structure of rabbits is similar to that of humans, especially the thin skin on the ventral side of rabbit ears, which is prone to the formation of hypertrophic scars, similar to the process of scar formation in humans. For externally used gel, cream and other drugs, it is convenient to observe the local penetration, absorption and efficacy of drugs, and can more accurately simulate the actual clinical medication. In addition, the formation of rabbit scars is stable, with distinct characteristics at each stage, which also facilitates long-term efficacy evaluation of drugs.

3.Pig scar model

Skin physiological characteristics are closest to humans, scar formation and healing processes are similar, clinical drug testing accuracy is high, and medical device testing is an ideal model

When experiments require highly simulating the clinical characteristics of human scars to more accurately predict the efficacy and safety of drugs in the human body, the pig scar model is the best choice. The physiological characteristics of pig skin are highly similar to those of humans, including contraction, color, texture, and other aspects during scar formation and healing. For the development of new anti scar drugs and some drugs that require strict evaluation of safety and efficacy, pig models can provide more reliable experimental data, providing strong support for the drug to enter clinical trials. At the same time, for the testing of medical devices related to scar treatment, pig models can also simulate their use in humans very well.

Rat tail skin scar model

New Zealand White Rabbit Ear Skin Hypertrophic Scar Model

Rabbit ear trauma, healing, and scar formation

Histological changes of rabbit ear scars

Skin wound healing period (4 weeks)

Skin scar treatment period (12 weeks)

Epidermal repair and formation of dermal scars

Arrangement, cell density, and neovascularization of newly formed collagen in the dermis