Healing Process Research Articles

Visible light accelerates skin wound healing and alleviates scar formation in mice by adjusting STAT3 signaling

During the wound healing process, the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is considered crucial for the migration and proliferation of epithelial cells, as well as for establishing the inflammatory environment. However, an excessive STAT3 activation aggravates scar formation. Here we show that 450 nm blue light and 630 nm red light can differentially regulate the phosphorylation of STAT3 (p-STAT3) and its downstream cytokines in keratinocytes. Further mechanistic studies reveal that red light promotes wound healing by activating the PI3 kinase p110 beta (PI3Kβ)/STAT3 signaling axis, while blue light inhibits p-STAT3 at the wound site by modulating cytochrome c-P450 (CYT-P450) activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In a mouse scar model, skin wound healing can be significantly accelerated with red light followed by blue light to reduce scar formation. In summary, our study presents a potential strategy for regulating epithelial cell p-STAT3 through visible light to address skin scarring issues and elucidates the underlying mechanisms.

Bacterial cellulose nanofiber reinforced self-healing hydrogel to construct a theranostic platform of antibacterial and enhanced wound healing

In order to promote wound healing, self-healing hydrogels with moisturizing property are employed as wound dressing. In this study, bacterial cellulose nanofibers (BCN) with high mechanical strength are used as reinforcement to improve the mechanical properties of self-healing hydrogels. A multifunctional self-healing hydrogel has been constructed by incorporating natural biomass, including Ag hybrid bacterial cellulose nanofiber (Ag-BCN), resveratrol (Res), and carbon nanodots (CNDs). The results of in vitro experiments demonstrate that the mechanical strength of the hybrid hydrogel was increased by 6 times with the addition of Ag-BCN, which also offers excellent antibacterial efficiency (S. aureus 99.99 % and E. coli 99.68 %). The hydrogel with CNDs can observe the healing process of the crack in real time and realize the controlled release of Res through photothermal effect. Moreover, the results of animal model experiments indicate that the prepared hydrogel could reduce the infection of the wound, effectively shorten the progress of wound healing (from 21d to 14 d). All the results imply that the prepared hydrogel has great promise in the application of skin wound healing.

The Influence of Polyamide Fabric on the Healing Process of Burned Patients

The Influence of Polyamide Fabric on the Healing Process of Burned Patients

Laporan Pendidikan Kesehatan Kebutuhan Nutrisi Untuk Proses Penyembuhan Luka Post OP di Bangsal Mawar RSUD Dr Soehadi Prijonegoro Sragen

: Background: Nutrients are obtained from food and fluids which are then assimilated by the body. Nutrition itself is one of the factors that can support the wound healing process, there are things that are no less important that must be considered as well, namely the nutrients from the food we eat during the wound healing process. Objective: The purpose of postoperative diet is to strive for the patient's nutritional status to return to normal immediately to accelerate the healing process and increase the patient's immune system, by providing basic needs (fluids, energy, protein), replacing the loss of protein, glycogen, iron, and other nutrients, correcting electrolyte and fluid imbalances, preventing and stopping bleeding. Methods: The media used in health education activities is leaflets. Through leaflets we hope that the delivery of material can be understood by participants and can be delivered well.Results: The results of observations from this health education activity, that the majority of participants are active in asking questions and answering questions given by the health education team and can explain the essence of the material that has been delivered by the speaker Conclusion: Of the 20 patient families who attended 15 people had understood the fulfillment of nutritional needs for the correct post op wound healing process.

A novel conceptual design for self-healing of cracked cementitious composites incorporating two bacteria-based capsules

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a low-density material prone to float during composite mixing and vibration. Inspired by this, a two-bacteria-capsule system was reported in this study to enhance the self-healing capacity of cracked mortar. Specifically, the BC-A capsule, containing aerobic bacteria, EPS, and superabsorbent polymer (SAP), and the BC-N capsule, containing anaerobic bacteria and SAP, are prepared through granulation using polyethylene glycol. Sulphoaluminate cement and epoxy resin are used to encapsulate the core materials. The BC-A capsules automatically float in the composite preparation process, while the BC-N capsules are distributed in the middle and bottom regions due to extrusion effect. Upon capsule rupture, the two types of bacteria are released in regions favorable for biomineralization, corresponding to the principle that oxygen concentration reduces along the crack depth. The self-healing behaviour was evaluated as well as the healing products were characterized. The results showed that the capsules cracked simultaneously with the composite and the coating effectively avoided premature release of the self-healing materials. Cementitious composites containing double capsules achieved 90 % closure of cracks with initial widths of 50–600 μm. The three-dimensional healing capacity was significantly enhanced, particularly in terms of impermeability and strength recovery ratio. The main healing products in the cracks were calcite and swollen SAP. The swollen SAP provided nucleation sites and enough water for biomineralization in the healing process.

Coaxial Electrospun wound dressing integrated with Ag-doped hydroxyapatite for wound healing: Tetracycline delivery

The human body's natural defense against inflammation in wounds can sometimes be insufficient. Introducing a wound dressing with this capability could significantly enhance the healing process. This study aimed to create a PVP/PVA-based coaxial electrospun wound dressing integrated with tetracycline-loaded Ag-doped hydroxyapatite (Ag@iHA) in three concentrations [G1, G2, and G3]) with a focus on drug release and antibacterial activity. Nanoparticles were analyzed using DLS, Zeta potential, SEM, EDX, XRD, and FTIR. The final wound dressing was studied from the viewpoint of physicochemical properties biologically, and finally, it was assessed under an in vivo study (9 Wistar rats, six days). Drug release was measured at three pH (5.4, 7, and 9). The results showed a remarkable success in the integration of silver ion in the hydroxyapatite structure, with a 90–600 nm size. Increasing the content of hydroxyapatite improved the quality of nanofibers that were produced. The nanofibers had high hydrophilicity (<5˚) and swelling rates (70–118 %), which were wholly degraded after 14 days. The amount of the released drug was completely different at each pH and was higher in an alkaline environment, as seen in wounds. The survival percentage (>90 %) of L929 cells showed the biocompatibility of nanofibers. In the animal study, all groups reduced the growth of microorganisms, but the most efficacy belonged to the G3 group. In conclusion, this novel wound dressing has the potential to significantly accelerate the body's natural healing process by controlling the growth of microorganisms.

Factors affecting fat myringoplasty in elderly patients with chronic otitis media: A case control study

BackgroundWe compared and analyzed the surgical results of fat myringoplasty between elderly and young adult patients with chronic otitis media. We also investigated whether underlying diseases and other factors impact the surgical outcome.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the data of 141 patients who underwent fat myringoplasty for chronic otitis media for five years. They were compared by age, sex, underlying disease, perforation size, pre- and postoperative pure tone audiometry, postoperative otorrhea, postoperative re-perforation, and cause of re-perforation.ResultPostoperative re-perforation was more common in the elderly group, albeit with no significant difference (p = 0.072). The factors affecting re-perforation were insufficient fat graft (44.4%), postoperative infection (33.3%), and nasal blowing (22.2%). Our findings revealed no significant association between preoperative perforation size and re-perforation (p = 0.391). Additionally, we found no significant relationship between hypertension and re-perforation (p > 0.99), nor between age group and postoperative infection (p = 0.488). Diabetes was also not significant (p = 0.640). Following surgery, both groups exhibited a significant improvement in hearing.ConclusionAlthough age and underlying conditions play significant roles in the healing process, our results suggest that external factors such as infection, nasal blowing, cough, and insufficient grafted fat tissue have a similarly significant impact on surgical outcomes in elderly patients with COM as they do in adults. In conclusion, the decision to perform surgery in elderly patients with COM should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s overall health status, hearing, use of hearing aids, and the indications for surgery.

POLIDEOXYRIBONUCLEOTIDE (PDRN): INNOVATIONS AND POTENTIAL IN TISSUE REGENERATION AND HEALING

Research on polideoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) highlights its significant potential in tissue regeneration and healing, emphasizing its importance in the fields of dermatology and regenerative medicine. PDRN is a biopolymer derived from salmon sperm DNA, recognized for its properties that facilitate wound healing, as well as its synergistic interactions with exosomes. These small extracellular vesicles play a crucial role in intercellular communication, and their combination with PDRN enhances the release of growth factors and other bioactive molecules that promote regeneration. Systematic reviews and clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of PDRN in various conditions, including tendinopathies, skin lesions, and bone healing. Data indicate that PDRN is safe, with no adverse effects reported in the reviewed studies, which increases its viability as a therapeutic option. Continued research into the molecular mechanisms underlying PDRN’s action is essential for standardizing dosages and treatment protocols, aiming to optimize its clinical applications. Furthermore, exploring combinations with other therapeutic agents and conducting multicenter studies are crucial for deepening the understanding of its effectiveness. In summary, PDRN represents an innovative and promising approach in the treatment of degenerative conditions and healing processes, signaling a positive future for regenerative medicine.

Mechanical Force on Hydrogel Implication on Enhanced Drug Release, Antibacterial, and M2 Macrophage Polarization: New Insights Alleviate Diabetic Wound Healing.

Diabetic foot ulcers/chronic wounds are difficult to treat because of dysfunctional macrophage response and decreased phenotype transition from the M1 to M2 status. This causes severe inflammation, less angiogenesis, microbial infections, and small deformation in wound beds, affecting the healing process. The commercial wound dressing material has limited efficacy, poor mechanical strength, extra pain, and new granulated tissue formed in a mesh of gauze. It is desired to create tough, skin-adhesive, antifouling, sustainable M2 phenotype-enabling, and mechanoresponsive drug-releasing hydrogel. To resolve this, zwitterionic poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (SB) incorporated with keratin-exfoliated MoS2 and bee-wax nanoparticles were developed to deliver phenytoin upon application of mechanical forces. Human hair keratin was used for exfoliation of MoS2, and bee-wax nanoparticles loaded with phenytoin were used as cross-linkers of SB hydrogel. The cross-linked SB-MO15-B hydrogel has high mechanical properties, with more tensile strength and strain of 118 kPa and 1485%. Under external mechanical force, hydrogel deformed to release phenytoin of 38% (tensile) and 24% (compressive), which was higher compared to static condition (12%). The penetration of phenytoin into skin tissue was also improved by the mechanical force applied to the hydrogel. SB-MO15-B hydrogel effectively activates the polarization of macrophages toward the M2 phenotype, promotes cell proliferation, and also shows superior antibacterial properties. In vivo results demonstrate that hydrogel rapidly promotes diabetic wound repair through fast antiinflammation and M2 macrophage polarization. Therefore, a robust mechanoresponsive hydrogel would provide a new strategy to deliver the drug and also tune the M2 macrophage polarization for chronic wound healing.

Deferoxamine Accelerates Mandibular Condylar Neck Fracture Early Bone Healing by Promoting Type H VesselProliferation.

Condylar fractures (CFs) are a common type of maxillofacial trauma, especially in adolescents. Conservative treatment of CF avoids the possible complications of surgical intervention, but prolongs the patient's suffering because of the requirement for extended intermaxillary fixation. Therefore, the development of a new strategy to accelerate the rate of fracture healing to shorten the period of conservative treatment is of great clinical importance. To investigate the potential of deferoxamine (DFO) in promoting the healing process of CF in adolescent mice. Thirty-two 4-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to four groups: vehicle + sham group, vehicle + CF group, DFO + sham group and DFO + CF group. After constructing the mandibular CF model, mandibular tissue samples were collected respectively at 1, 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively. Radiographic and histomorphometric analyses were employed to assess bone tissue healing and vascular formation. Deferoxamine was observed to promote the early bone healing of fracture, both radiologically and histomorphometrically. Furthermore, this enhancement of condylar neck fracture healing was attributed to the upregulation of the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) signalling pathway while facilitating the formation of type H vessels. In addition, DFO did not produce significant effects on the condylar neck between vehicle + sham and DFO + sham group. The application of the HIF-1α inducer DFO can enhance type H vessels expansion thereby accelerating condylar neck fracture healing.

Physiochemical and In-Vitro Bioactivity Characterization of Polyvinyl Alcohol / Halloysite Nanotube / Collagen (PVA/HNT/Col) using Freeze-Thawing Method and Spin Coated Technique for Wound Healing Applications

Hydrogels are still relevant instruments that can support and improve the dynamic biological process of wound healing. This paper modified hydrogel film by combining polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), halloysite nanotube (HNT), and collagen using simple freeze-thawing and spin-coating techniques. The modification aims to improve the physiochemical and in-vitro bioactivity of the PVA/HNT hydrogel films via the inclusion of different concentrations of collagen. 0.092 mm PVA/HNT/Col3 hydrogel film was suggested to have excellent morphological properties with 94.11 % porosity. It also has good tensile properties with excellent hydrophilicity performance at 38.40o contact angle and 83.528% swelling capacity compared to other modified films. In-vitro bioactivity suggested that the PVA/HNT/Col3 are safe and non-toxic toward host tissue and can promote healing at 93.12% wound closure after 24 hours of treatment. Hence, this material displays huge potential as a wound healing matrix template.

MICROBIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ORAL MUCOSAIN PATIENTS WITH LICHEN PLANUS ERYTHEMATOSUS

Lichen planus is a multifactorial disease that involves immune, neuroendocrine, microbiological, and other metabolic processes associated with skin and mucosal damage. The microflora of the oral cavity in CPL SOPR was studied by E. S. Leontieva etal., 2014, the microbiocenosis of various biotopes of the oral cavity in patients with CPL SOPR was studied. The study involved 95 patients with CPL SOPR, who underwent hygienic, periodontal and microbiological research methods. The results of the degree of bacterial contamination indicate a more pronounced colonization of foci of CPL lesion by representatives of the coccoid flora: Streptococcus salivares and Streptococcus mutans, but there is no correlation between them. Isolated Streptococcus Sanguis colonies were observed in 55% of patients. In addition, fungi of the genus Candida albicans were detected in 50%, the average level of adhesion of Candida albicans strains in patients with CPL was 16.78±1.64%. The frequency of detection of fungi of the genus Candida albicans in foci of CPL lesion correlates (r=0.79) with the activity of the disease course. The significance of Candida albicans contamination is determined not so much by the degree of contamination of the lesion foci, but by such pathogenic properties of Candida albicansas the level of adhesion and the activity of germination tubes formation [1,2,3,6,11,2,3,6,11]. Authors Chuikin S. V., Akmalova G. M., Chernysheva N. D., 2014, analyzed the qualitative and quantitative microbiocenosis of the oral cavity in patients with CPL. The study included 145 patients with CPL aged 21 to 76 years, of whom 5% were men and 95% were women. The predominant form of CPL was erosive-ulcerative form (33.1%), the lowest frequency was observed in 2% of patients with bullous form. The results of the study showed that dysbiotic changes were observed with a predominance of candida infection and were found in 57.2% of the examined patients, which are observed more often in erosive-ulcerative and bullous forms of CPL. The results of the study showed that all the examined patients had microbiocenosis disorders of varying severity from dysbiotic shift to IYgrade IY dysbiosis and high sensitivity to bacteriophages was revealed. It should be noted that high sensitivity of pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms sown in дисбактериозахoral dysbiosis was detected to цефалоспориногоcephalosporin antibiotics (100%), oxacillin (79%), gentamicin (76%), lincomycin (73%). [5,7,9,12]. A number of foreign authors Villa (TG, Sá ncheznchez-Pérez rez Á, Sieiro C., 2021) believe that microbial infection triggers an autoimmune response. Withdysbiosisof the intestinal microbiota , there is a violationof the integrity of the intestinal barrier, followed by an increase in intestinal permeability, and the penetration микроорганизмof microorganisms and their toxinов into the circulatory system. Current knowledge about this disease requires the inclusion of this disease in the list of autoimmune diseases, since the progression of CPL involves colonization of locally affected areas by bacteria, fungi or viruses that occur after damage to the oral mucosa and skin. The process of healing the disease should include eliminating microbial dysbiosis and restoring the normal microbiota of the oral mucosa, skin, and intestines. [4,6,8,10,13,14].

The influence of maggot debridement therapy on the bacterial flora of hard-to-heal wounds.

Maggot debridement therapy (MDT) is increasingly being used in clinical practice as an alternative treatment for hard-to-heal (chronic) wounds. Among the many benefits of using MDT is its antimicrobial effect. Maggots secrete substances that are known to have antibacterial properties against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Clinically, this results in the effective eradication of pathogenic species and consequently, a faster healing process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect MDT has on the bacterial flora of hard-to-heal ulcers. Patients with venous, mixed arteriovenous, decubitus, diabetic and neuropathic wounds were treated with larvae of Lucilia sericata enclosed in bags. Dressings were applied to the wounds for 72 hours. Before and after the therapy, a swab was taken from the wound, and bacterial diversity and bacterial growth scores were assessed. While 16 patients were treated only once, the treatment had to be repeated in four cases until the wounds were fully debrided. Bacteria of the species Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis were the most common strains observed. Of the 20 patients treated, the total number of bacterial strains decreased in eight wounds, but increased in five wounds, while no difference was observed in nine wounds. The average number of bacterial strains in wounds decreased after MDT. A lower incidence of alarm pathogens was also reported. In cases where multiple applications of larvae were administered, greater decreases in bacterial growth scores were observed than in cases with a single application of dressing (37.5% vs 18.1%, respectively). In 18 cases, after disinfection of the wound by larvae, it was reinfected by strains not detected before. Wounds healed completely after MDT in two patients. In this study, MDT changed the bacterial diversity of hard-to-heal wounds. The larvae reduced overall bacterial growth scores and acted on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as on alarm pathogens. Cleaned wounds appeared to become vulnerable to infection by opportunistic bacteria. The bacterial burden decreased as the number of applications of biological dressings increased.

Increased Runx-2 Expression In The Y-TZP Biomaterial Osteointegration Process With hADMSC Seeding

Introduction:. Peri-implantitis, overload, and poor prosthetic construction result in dental implant failure. The success factor of the implant is osteointegration, the formation of tissue between the implant surface and the bone without fibrous tissue. Human Mesenchymal bone marrow (hBMSC) is difficult and risky. Biomarkers associated with increased osteogenesis for osseointegration of biomaterials. This research was conducted to analyze biomarkers that can occur osteogenesis, to increase osteointegration of biomaterials that have high biocompatibility using mesenchymal stem cells. Methods: The research carried out is a true experimental study on Wistar rat test animals totaling 6 treatment groups consisting of 3 groups at the 1st week and 8th week. Each tissue sample was made into a slice preparation with a thickness of 4um, then detected by immunohistochemical examination for Runx2 expression and data in analysis. Results: An increase in Runx-2 expression occurred significantly at week 8 in the Y-TZP biomaterial treatment group seeded with hADMSC (P4). Disscusion: Through increased expression of Runx-2 is a biomarker as a marker on hADMSC which can increase osteogenesis and osteointegration of Y-TZP biomaterial. The use of Y-TZP biomaterial in tissue engineering can be used in other fields of medicine, due to its good biocompatibility as an implant biomaterial so that implant failure can be prevented. Conclusion: Dental implant failure prevented by hADMSC seeding in Y-TZP via increased Runx-2 extrusion. Runx-2 in osteogenesis and fibroblast migration are influenced by various genes in the bone healing process. The benefits of this research can reduce the stiffness of dental implants.

Recent Advancement in Novel Wound Healing Therapies by Using Antimicrobial Peptides Derived from Humans and Amphibians.

The skin is the biggest organ in the human body. It is the first line of protection against invading pathogens and the starting point for the immune system. The focus of this review is on the use of amphibian-derived peptides and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in the treatment of wound healing. When skin is injured, a chain reaction begins that includes inflammation, the formation of new tissue, and remodelling of existing tissue to aid in the healing process. Collaborating with non-immune cells, resident and recruited immune cells in the skin remove foreign invaders and debris, then direct the repair and regeneration of injured host tissues. Restoration of normal structure and function requires the healing of damaged tissues. However, a major issue that slows wound healing is infection. AMPs are just one type of host-defense chemicals that have developed in multicellular animals to regulate the immune response and limit microbial proliferation in response to various types of biological or physical stress. Therefore, peptides isolated from amphibians represent novel therapeutic tools and approaches for regenerating damaged skin. Peptides that speed up the healing process could be used as therapeutic lead molecules in future research into novel drugs. AMPs and amphibian-derived peptides may be endogenous mediators of wound healing and treat non-life-threatening skin and epithelial lesions. Thus, the present article was drafted with to incorporate different peptides used in wound healing, their method of preparation and routes of administration.

Hidden scars: the persistent multifaceted health and psychosocial consequences for Syrian torture survivors.

Background: The impact on the physical and mental health of those who survived torture and their close circles in the Syrian regime's detention facilities remains under-studied.Objective: This qualitative study explored Syrian refugees' narrations of captivity and torture, and the consequences of such extreme traumatic events on their physical and psychosocial health.Method: Thirteen audio-recorded interviews were conducted in Arabic with Syrian refugees. Study participants were at least 19 years of age, resided in diverse urban areas of Jordan, had experienced captivity and torture in Syrian detention facilities, and voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. Participation was anonymous, only oral consent was required, and no incentives were provided to participants. Interviews were transcribed and translated into English by a team of researchers, followed by analysis of repetitive themes according to the narrative paradigm.Results: Analysis of interviews elicited three major themes: extreme traumatic experiences of torture, and its physical and psychosocial health consequences. The first major theme was divided into two sub-themes: torture experienced by the participants themselves, and torture experienced by participants' close circles. The second major theme, pertaining to physical health, was divided into two sub-themes: acute and chronic health sequelae. The third major theme, related to psychosocial health, was divided into four sub-themes: mental health symptomatology, impacts on professional life, impacts on interpersonal relationships, and social consequences.Conclusions: Torture experiences of Syrian refugees had adverse consequences for the physical and psychosocial health, functioning, and the overall well-being of survivors and their close circles. Interventions may seek to improve both the acute and chronic health consequences, as well as the mental health symptoms and associated impacts on livelihood, professional, and relationship dynamics. They should span clinical, legal, and advocacy spheres, given that a holistic approach may contribute immensely to survivors' healing process.

Making school home: A therapeutic design for students with intellectual disabilities

Abstract Inclusive school design is urgent not only to provide students with disabilities with environment that allows equal access to education but also to facilitate them with a supportive environment to help their healing process and to avoid psychological trauma. This article discusses the application of therapeutic design in a school for students with intellectual disabilities. The design follows therapeutic criteria consisting of: care in community, design for domesticity, social valorization, and integration with nature. Schools are designed as cluster systems using centralized circulation to improve spatial connectivity and to allow more social interaction. Additionally, the integration with nature is implemented through the use of more openings and inner courtyard. This article is in response to Sustainable Development Goals number 4: Quality Education.

Inhibition of Ubiquitin C-Terminal Hydrolase L1 Facilitates Cutaneous Wound Healing via Activating TGF-β/Smad Signalling Pathway in Fibroblasts.

Ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) plays vital roles in cell proliferation, angiogenesis, inflammation and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, it is unclear whether UCHL1 could regulate the biologic behaviour of cells and ultimately influences wound healing. We aim to illustrate the roles and the underlying mechanism of UCHL1 in cutaneous wound healing. Murine full-thickness excisional wound model was utilised to study the effects of UCHL1 on wound healing through topical administration of the UCHL1 inhibitor LDN57444, followed by assessment of wound areas and histological alterations. Subsequently, ethynyldeoxyuridine, scratch and transwell assays were performed to examine fibroblast migration and proliferation. The extracellular matrix (ECM)-related genes expression and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad signalling pathways activation were investigated by immuno-fluorescent staining, Western blots and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. We identified elevated UCHL1 expression in non-healing wound tissues. The UCHL1 expression displayed a dynamic change and reached a peak on Day-7 post-wounding during the healing process in mice. Cutaneous administration of LDN57444 promoted wound healing by facilitating collagen deposition, myofibroblast activation and angiogenesis. Invitro experiments demonstrated that UCHL1 concentration dependently inhibited migration, ECM synthesis and activation of human dermal fibroblasts, which was mechanistically related to downregulation of TGF-β/Smad signalling. Furthermore, these effects could be reversed by TGF-β inhibitor SB431542. Our findings reveal that UCHL1 is a negative regulator of cutaneous wound healing and considered as a novel prospective therapeutic target for effective wound healing.

Effect of super absorbent polymers on the self-healing capability of macrocracked ultra-high performance concrete under highly aggressive environments

In this study, the performance of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) as self-healing agents in macrocracked ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) was extensively evaluated, with a focus on compressive strength behavior in different aggressive environments. Three UHPC mixtures were designed: a control mixture, a UHPC with 0.3 % sodium polyacrylate (poly(AA)), and a UHPC with 0.3 % polyacrylate-co-acrylamide (poly(AA-co-AM)). Samples with macrocrack widths of 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, and 1 mm, as well as uncracked samples, were prepared. The samples underwent immersion in deionized water, chloride saltwater, and compound saltwater. The performance of self-healing was evaluated by measuring crack closure rates, recovered compressive strength, and stereomicroscopic inspections. Further, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) was performed to monitor mineral formation and the healing process. The results indicate that both poly(AA) and poly(AA-co-AM) SAPs significantly enhanced the self-healing capabilities of UHPC, with poly(AA) demonstrating superior performance. Self-healing was more pronounced in samples with cracks width of 0.3 mm, whereas samples with cracks widths of 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm exhibited incomplete and negligible healing, respectively. The healed samples recovered a substantial portion of their compressive strength, regardless of the crack width. However, the presence of chloride and/or sulfate ions was found to impede the self-healing process. As observed from the SEM/EDX results, in addition to CaCO3 and C-S-H gel, undesirable healing products like Friedel’s salt and ettringite were also formed in chloride and compound saltwater environments which significantly affected self-healing durability.

CLEC14A facilitates angiogenesis and alleviates inflammation in diabetic wound healing

BackgroundDelayed wound healing is a serious complication of diabetic wounds, posing a significant challenge to the treatment of patients with diabetes. Diabetic wound healing is a complex dynamic process involving angiogenesis and inflammatory responses. Currently, there are limited targeted therapies to promote diabetic wound healing. This study aimed to reveal the role of CLEC14A in the process of diabetic wound healing, with the hope of identifying new therapeutic targets to accelerate the healing of diabetic wounds. MethodsIn vivo, diabetic mice were generated by combined streptozotocin (STZ) and high-fat diet treatment. The wound healing model was established in wild-type and Clec14a−/− diabetic mice. The degree of wound healing, as well as angiogenesis and inflammation during the healing process, were evaluated through Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, immunohistochemical staining, and immunofluorescence staining. In vitro, the angiogenic activities of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) were assessed following treatment with high glucose and adenoviruses overexpressing CLEC14A, using scratch assays and tube formation assays. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) were utilized to evaluate the levels of inflammation in HUVECs. ResultsCLEC14A expression was suppressed in diabetic wounds. Deletion of the Clec14a inhibited angiogenesis and activated inflammatory responses in vivo. High-glucose treatment led to decreased CLEC14A expression, impaired angiogenic capacity, and elevated inflammatory levels in vitro. However, adenoviral-mediated overexpression of CLEC14A reversed the response induced by high glucose. ConclusionCLEC14A accelerates diabetic wound healing by promoting angiogenesis and reducing wound inflammation.