OPUS 26 / NSC

Project title: The effect of Western diet modified with vegetable oils on the healing process of skin wounds in mice

The aim of the project is to show that changing eating habits by partial substitution of dietary animal fat by plant oils improves skin wound healing by reducing pro-inflammatory effect of WD and restoring skin ability to heal wounds via repair (scarring). Additionally, a comparative analysis of the effect on skin between diet rich in rapeseed and palm oil will be performed. Results obtained in the proposed project will provide important information of the immunomodulatory role of dietary vegetable oils (rapeseed and palm) and their impact on skin condition that determines the tissue capacity to heal wounds. Investigating the interactions between macrophages and dermal fibroblasts, describing the importance of CD36, as well as demonstrating the role of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway that acts as mediator and effector pathway of these interactions, might reveal potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of chronic and non-healing wounds. Moreover, considering the FA profile of the tested plant oils, we assume that in the context of skin wound healing our studies will show that the effect of rapeseed oil consumption is superior over those observed for palm oil. In this way, obtained results can contribute to the promotion of consumption of local products and lead to regional development as Poland is European leader of rapeseed oil production. Finally, by demonstrating that the modified version of the WD proposed in the project has a beneficial effect on skin condition and wound healing process, obtained results will strengthen the recommendations for replacing animal products with plant-based food in a daily, balanced diet.

Project will be implemented by the researchers from ICTER at IPC PAS and from the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research PAS (consortium leader).

The total funding for this project is PLN 3 495 898 (PLN 970 510 for IPC PAS as a partner).