Abstract
The inflammatory α‐chemokine, interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), affects the function and recruitment of various inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, and keratinocytes. Gap junctions are anatomical channels that facilitate the direct passage of small molecules between cells. The hypothesis is that IL‐8 enhances gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) between fibroblasts in granulation tissue, which increases the rate of granulation tissue maturation. In vitro, human dermal fibroblasts were incubated with IL‐8 prior to scrape loading, a technique that quantifies GJIC. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sponges were implanted within subcutaneous pockets in rats and received local injections of either IL‐8 or saline and were harvested on day 11. In vitro, IL‐8 treated fibroblasts demonstrated an increase in GJIC by scrape loading compared to saline treated controls. In vivo, IL‐8 treated PVA sponges demonstrated a decrease in cell density and an increase in vascularization compared to saline controls by H&E staining. Polarized light viewed Sirius red‐stained specimens demonstrated greater collagen birefringence intensity, indicating thicker, more‐mature collagen fibers. IL‐8 increases GJIC in cultured fibroblasts and induces a more rapid maturation of granulation tissue. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.