[Effects of supplement Zn on levels of Zn in serum, growth hormone and hydroxyproline].

Objective: In order to research the effects of supplement Zn on wound healing, the changes of Zn in serum and skin, growth hormone and hydroxyproline of skin were observed in burn rats.

Method: 80 SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: Control group of 8 rats, N group (diet containing Zn 40 micrograms/g), W group (application of Zn on burn skin), H group (diet containing Zn 80 micrograms/g). 8 rats of each group were killed on 1, 3, 7 days after burn.

Results: The levels of serum Zn declined on 1 day postburn in N and W groups, whereas the content of serum Zn in H group elevated and were 2.4, 2.0 times as much as that of N and W groups respectively (P < 0.01). Zn in burn skin increased significantly on 3, 7 days in W group and was 1.3, 1.5 times as much as that of N group. Serum growth hormone increased in all groups postburn. The highest level appeared in H group. Hydroxyproline in burn skin decreased in all groups, but it began to increase on 7 day postburn in W group.

Conclusion: Supplementation of Zn by diet rapidly raises the levels of Zn in serum, burn skin and growth hormone. It is beneficial to apply Zn to the wound to improve wound healing. Hydroxyproline increased significantly with application of Zn to burn wound. It is better to supply Zn by diet and topical application simultaneously.