Species-Specific and Wound-Specific Models in Preclinical Wound Healing: A Comprehensive Review

Author: Dr. Navneet O. Soni

Email: navneetsoni1978@yahoo.com

Volume: 1 | Issue: 2 (March–April 2026) | Pages: 1–10 | Published: March 1, 2026

Abstract

Objective: To thoroughly assess the various animal and experimental wound models used in wound healing research, this systematic review summarizes the species/strains, benefits, drawbacks, and methodological foundations for choosing suitable models.

Methods: Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies until December 2025. The PRISMA guidelines were followed in screening studies describing animal species used for wound healing or experimental wound creation. Full texts that met the criteria were qualitatively synthesized.

Results: Eight major animal species (mouse, rat, rabbit, guinea pig, pig, dog, zebrafish, and horse/sheep in restricted settings) and eight widely used wound models (incision, excision, partial-thickness, full-thickness, burn, diabetic, subcutaneous implant, and rabbit ear) were identified.

Conclusion: The choice of animal and wound models should be based on research objectives. Rodents are economical but mainly heal by contraction, whereas pigs are closest to humans structurally. Researchers should match wound depth and physiological relevance to human conditions when designing studies.

Keywords

Wound healing; Animal wound models; Full-thickness wound model; Excision wound model; Incision wound model; Burn injury model; Diabetic wound model