What role does oxygen play in the wound healing process?

Oxygen plays a critical role in the wound healing process primarily due to its involvement in cellular functions and biochemical processes. The correct choice emphasizes that oxygen is essential for collagen synthesis and the function of immune response cells.

In wound healing, fibroblasts, which are crucial for producing collagen, require an adequate supply of oxygen. Collagen is necessary for providing structural integrity to the new tissue forming in the wound bed. Additionally, immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, rely on oxygen for energy production and effective functioning. These cells are critical for fighting infections and clearing debris that may hinder the healing process.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary role that oxygen plays in wound healing. While oxygen does contribute indirectly to nutrient delivery (as part of the overall metabolic processes), its direct impact is much stronger in relation to collagen synthesis and immune cell activity. Protecting the wound from infection and decreasing necrosis are important factors in healing but are secondary to the role of oxygen in facilitating the very processes that sustain healing, such as cellular metabolism and tissue regeneration.