Mixture Containing 5% Polysaccharide Extract of Cerioporus squamosus (Huds.) Quélet, 5% Dexpanthenol, and 0.2% Hyaluronic Acid Shows In Vitro and In Vivo Wound Healing Properties.

Background: This study explores wound healing and the antimicrobial potential of a natural formulation containing a polysaccharide extract from Cerioporus squamosus, hyaluronic acid, and dexpanthenol. Methods: Wound healing effects were assessed using HaCaT keratinocytes, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated against human skin pathogens using a microdilution assay. In vitro cytotoxicity tests ensured formulation safety, whereas in vivo wound healing was further investigated using an animal model. Gene expression analysis was performed to assess the molecular mechanisms involved. Results: The unique glucan composition of C. squamosus (15.38% α-glucans and 7.91% β-glucans) deviated from typical mushroom polysaccharide profiles, warranting further exploration of its bioactivity. In vitro mushroom polysaccharides promoted 25.35% wound closure after 24 hours, while the three-component formulation achieved 35.81% closure. Antibacterial activity showed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.44-1.75 mg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBCs) of 0.88-3.50 mg/mL, while antifungal activity ranged from 0.22 to 0.44 mg/mL (MICs) and 0.44 to 0.88 mg/mL (minimum fungicidal concentration-MFC). In vivo data showed that 60% of treated wounds fully closed by day 11, despite no statistically significant difference from the control. However, gene expression analysis highlighted VEGF and collagen upregulation, indicating an enhancement of wound healing on a molecular level. Conclusions: The novel three-component formulation demonstrated consistent wound healing and antimicrobial properties, supporting its potential as a safe and effective treatment for chronic and acute wounds.