Clinical value of adipose tissue-derived stem cells application in healing of experimental diabetic and nondiabetic burn

Abstract

Objectives: The mechanisms underlying delayed healing in diabetes are not completely understood and biomarkers to identify and to treat such pathways are needed. The aim of the present study is to assess the clinical effect of adipose tissue-derived stem cells in accelerating third-degree burns healing in diabetic and normal mouse model and to restore skin integrity. Assessment of healing by Serpin B3 and keratinocyte growth factor-1 (KGF-1) as novel biomarkers and possible molecular targets of impaired diabetic wound healing. Materials and methods: Forty male mice were set up as an experimental model for third-degree burn. They were randomly divided into four groups as follows: the control group, the diabetic (received high-fat diet) burnt group, the diabetic burnt group treated with adipose tissue-derived stem cells, and the nondiabetic burnt group treated with adipose tissue-derived stem cells. The rate of burn healing, the degree of angiogenesis, and collagen formation were evaluated by histological examination, Serpin B3 (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and KGF-1 measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. They were sacrificed after the 3rd week for tissue sampling. Results: Adipose tissue-derived stem cells accelerate the healing of experimental burns. Serpin B3 was upregulated in adipose tissue-derived stem cells treated burns associated with denser collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and increased expression of KGF-1. Hair growth occurred in adipose tissue-derived stem cells-treated groups but not in the untreated groups. Conclusion: Adipose tissue-derived stem cells represent an effective treatment for burn healing especially in resistant diabetic burns. High Serpin B3 and KGF-1 were found to be valuable biomarkers of successful healing in diabetic burns.