What causes the healing of a wound during the proliferative phase?

The healing of a wound during the proliferative phase is primarily driven by collagen formation. During this phase, which typically occurs several days after the initial injury, fibroblasts migrate to the wound site and begin synthesizing collagen. Collagen is a critical protein that provides structure and support to the tissues, playing a pivotal role in the formation of new extracellular matrix as well as new tissue, which is essential for wound closure and repair.

In addition to collagen, the proliferative phase involves several other processes like angiogenesis (the growth of new blood vessels) and epithelialization (the proliferation and migration of skin cells). While these processes are important, the formation of collagen is central because it is fundamental to tissue strength and integrity, ensuring that the repaired tissue can withstand normal forces and stresses.

As the collagen matrix develops and matures, it helps in stabilizing the wound and enables the subsequent phases of healing, particularly remodeling. Therefore, the prominence of collagen formation in supporting the overall healing process during this stage is what makes it the correct answer.