Wound Healing Process Research Articles

Neutrophil Migration is a Crucial Factor in Wound Healing and the Pathogenesis of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Insights into Pharmacological Interventions.

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) pose a significant clinical challenge, characterized by impaired wound healing, chronic inflammation, and increased risk of infection. Neutrophils, as critical components of the innate immune response, play a pivotal role in the initial stages of wound healing, particularly during the inflammatory phase. This review explores the intricate relationship between neutrophil migration, inflammation, and the pathogenesis of DFU and drugs that can impact neutrophil production and migration. Neutrophils contribute to infection control through phagocytosis and release pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, which, when dysregulated, can impede the wound healing process. Furthermore, the chronic hyperglycemic state characteristic of diabetes mellitus has been implicated in impairing neutrophil functions, including chemotaxis and oxidative burst. This compromised neutrophil response prolongs the inflammatory phase and disrupts the delicate balance required for efficient wound healing. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), a unique form of neutrophil defence, have also been implicated in DFU pathogenesis, potentially exacerbating inflammation and tissue damage. Understanding the intricate interplay between neutrophil migration, dysregulated inflammatory responses, and hyperglycemia-driven impairments is essential for developing targeted therapeutic strategies for DFUs. This review sheds light on the critical role of neutrophils in DFU pathogenesis, and innovative and advanced treatment strategies for DFU, highlighting the potential for novel interventions to restore the balance between pro-inflammatory and wound healing processes, ultimately improving clinical outcomes for individuals with DFU.

013. Black Stools and Vomiting of Blood in Children Caused by Anemia Gravis ec Duodenal Ulcer Pars 2 with Perforation (Wound Healing with Branch A. Cystica Ruptur)

Background: Duodenal ulcers are rare in children but can lead to life-threatening complications such as perforation and severe anemia. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding, manifesting as hematemesis and melena, can result in anemia gravis, necessitating urgent intervention. The rupture of a cystic artery branch during the wound healing process adds further complexity to the condition. This case report aims to describe presentation, diagnosis, and management of a child with duodenal ulcer pars 2 complicated by perforation and anemia gravis, with attention to the role of a ruptured cystic artery branch in the wound healing process. Case: A 15-year-old boy presented with a 5-day history of vomiting blood and black stools. Initial evaluation included thorough physical examination, laboratory tests to assess anemia severity, and imaging studies to localize the source of bleeding. The patient underwent emergency surgery for perforated duodenal ulcer and associated hemorrhage. Intraoperative findings revealed rupture of a branch of the cystic artery. The patient was diagnosed with anemia gravis due to gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to a perforated duodenal ulcer. Surgical repair of the perforation and arterial rupture was performed. Postoperatively, the patient's hemoglobin levels improved following blood transfusion and supportive care. The patient recovered without complications. Conclusion: Early recognition of duodenal ulcers with perforation in children is crucial, especially in cases with severe anemia. Prompt surgical intervention and management of associated arterial complications, such as cystic artery rupture, are essential for favorable outcomes. This case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex pediatric gastrointestinal emergencies.

The role of neuropeptides in cutaneous wound healing: a focus on mechanisms and neuropeptide-derived treatments.

An extensive network of cutaneous nerves, neuropeptides, and specific receptors richly innervates the skin and influences a variety of physiological and pathological processes. The sensory and autonomic nerve fibers secrete a variety of neuropeptides that are essential to the different phases of wound healing. In addition to initiating a neurogenic inflammatory response in the early stages of healing, neuropeptides also control wound healing by influencing immune cells, repair cells, and the growth factor network. However, the precise mechanism by which they accomplish these roles in the context of cutaneous wound healing is still unknown. Investigating the mechanisms of action of neuropeptides in wound healing and potential therapeutic applications is therefore urgently necessary. The present review discusses the process of wound healing, types of neuropeptides, potential mechanisms underlying the role of neuropeptides in cutaneous wound healing, as well as some neuropeptide-derived treatment strategies, such as hydrogels, new dressings, electro stimulation, and skin-derived precursors. Future in-depth mechanistic studies of neuropeptides in cutaneous wound healing may provide opportunities to develop therapeutic technologies that harness the roles of neuropeptides in the wound healing process.

Chitosan-grafted Graphene Materials for Drug Delivery in Wound Healing.

The effective and prompt treatment of wounds remains a significant challenge in clinical settings. Consequently, recent investigations have led to the development of a novel wound dressing production designed to expedite the process of wound healing with minimal adverse complications. Chitosan, identified as a natural biopolymer, emerges as an appealing option for fabricating environmentally friendly dressings due to its biologically degradable, nonpoisonous, and inherent antimicrobial properties. Concurrently, graphene oxide has garnered attention from researchers as an economical, biocompatible material with non-toxic attributes for applications in wound healing. Chitosan (CS) has been extensively studied in agglutination owing to its advantageous properties, such as Non-toxicity biological compatibility, degradability, and facilitation of collagen precipitation. Nonetheless, its limited Medium mechanical and antibacterial strength characteristics impede its widespread clinical application. In addressing these shortcomings, numerous researchers have embraced nanotechnology, specifically incorporating Metal nanoparticles (MNPs), to enhance the mechanical power and targeted germicide features of chitosan multistructures, yielding hopeful outcomes. Additionally, chitosan is a decreasing factor for MNPs, contributing to reduced cytotoxicity. Consequently, the combination of CS with MNPs manifests antibacterial function, superior mechanical power, and anti-inflammatory features, holding significant potential to expedite wound healing. This study delves into Based on chitosan graphene materials in the context of wound healing.

High Antimicrobial Electrotherapy and Wound Monitoring Hydrogel with Bimetal Phenolic Networks for Smart Healthcare

AbstractThe design and fabrication of novel soft bioelectronic materials for rapid wound healing and real‐time monitoring are critical for smart healthcare. However, developing such integrated multifunctional materials devices remains challenging due to fabrication dynamics and sensing interface issues. Herein, a novel strategy is presented for accelerating the kinetics of hydrogels integrating antimicrobial, electrotherapeutic, and wound monitoring functions via bimetallic phenolic networks. The Al3+ catalyzes the radical copolymerization reaction of acrylic acid, resulting in the gelation of the system within 10 s, and also catalyzes the redox reaction between silver and lignin, inducing the sustained release of catechol, which significantly enhances the hydrogel's antimicrobial activity and shortened the wound healing process. Meanwhile, the abundant non‐covalent interactions enhance the hydrogel's tissue adhesion, and mechanical properties (tensile strength 1.558 MPa and elongation 1563%). In addition, the bimetallic ions endow the hydrogels with excellent sensing properties. Under the synergy of electrical stimulation, the wound healing rate is accelerated. Notably, wound assessment can be performed by monitoring changes in electrical signals over the wound, which can assist physicians and patients in achieving intelligent wound management. This work provides new insights into the design and application of multifunctional smart bioelectronic materials.

The effect of Xerostomia in diabetes mellitus patients on the incidence of dry socket after tooth extraction: A literature review

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder caused by the absence of insulin hormone production or lack of response to insulin. Diabetes mellitus can cause complications such as caries, periodontal disease, and xerostomia. Xerostomia is associated with low salivary flow which can cause several additional complications. Objective: To determine the effect of xerostomia, a complication in patients with diabetes mellitus, on the incidence of dry sockets after tooth extraction. Method: The method used in this study is a Literature Review, which searches three different journal databases, using the search terms "xerostomia" OR "diabetes mellitus" AND "tooth extraction" OR "dry socket." Results: It shows that there is an effect between the occurrence of xerostomia in patients with diabetes mellitus and the incidence of dry sockets after tooth extraction. Discussion: In patients with diabetes mellitus, saliva production can decrease due to nerve and blood vessel damage caused by glucose metabolism disorders in the body. This can reduce the quality and increase the viscosity of saliva, making the wound-healing process after tooth extraction more difficult. Xerostomia in patients with diabetes mellitus can worsen the dry socket condition because of the lack of moisture in the oral cavity, which can affect the blood clotting process after tooth extraction. If the blood clot dislodges, it can cause a dry socket in xerostomia patients. Conclusion: Dry socket in diabetic patients with xerostomia is thought to be due to low saliva production which interferes with wound healing after tooth extraction.

Boron in wound healing: a comprehensive investigation of its diverse mechanisms.

Chronic wounds present a significant clinical challenge due to their prolonged healing time and susceptibility to infection. Boron, a trace element with diverse biological functions, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent in wound healing. This review article comprehensively investigates the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of boron compounds in wound healing. Boron exerts its healing properties through multiple pathways, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pro-proliferative effects. Inflammation is a crucial component of the wound-healing process, and boron has been shown to modulate inflammatory responses by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the resolution of inflammation. Furthermore, boron exhibits antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogens commonly associated with chronic wounds, thereby reducing the risk of infection and promoting wound closure. The antioxidant properties of boron help protect cells from oxidative stress, a common feature of chronic wounds that can impair healing. Additionally, boron stimulates cell proliferation and migration, as well as essential tissue regeneration and wound closure processes. Overall, this review highlights the potential of boron as a novel therapeutic approach for treating chronic wounds, offering insights into its diverse mechanisms of action and clinical implications.

Antibiotics-encapsulated nanoparticles as an antimicrobial agent in the treatment of wound infection.

Disruption in the wound-healing process is caused by the presence of bacteria and leads to major problems and delays in wound healing. The limitations of commonly used medicines for treating wound infections include drug toxicity, insufficient microbial coverage, poor penetration, and increased resistance. This study aimed to determine the effect of ciprofloxacin loaded in solid lipid nanoparticles (Cip-SLN) on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and ampiciliin-vancomycin loaded in solid lipid nanoparticles (Amp-Van-SLN) on Staphylococcus aureus in wounds. Antibiotics were encapsulated in SLNs using the double emulsion method and were characterized. The in-vitro effect of antibiotic-loaded nanoparticles on P. aeruginosa and S. aureus was assessed using well diffusion and MIC methods. Finally, the topical antibacterial activity of these nanoparticles against bacterial wound infection was measured in a mouse model. MIC results showed that in the first 24 hours, the free drug had a greater effect on inhibiting bacteria, and in 72 hours, the inhibitory effect of nanoparticles increased. There was no toxicity effect of 400 µg/mL of nanoparticles on cells. According to the findings, the groups treated with Cip-SLN and Amp-Van-SLN were more effective than the control group (untreated) in different concentrations. In the wound healing process, the group treated with solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) exhibited a greater epithelial thickness, indicating enhanced healing, compared to the group treated with the free drug. The use of SLN can increase the accumulation of antibiotics at the site of infection with a slow release of the drug due to its fatty nature, which leads to a significant inhibitory effect on bacteria and also improves wound healing.

Ginsenoside Rg1 Promotes Wound Healing in Mice with Superficial Second-Degree Burns Through Energy Metabolism, Cell Migration, and Cell Adhesion Pathways.

Natural products are known to have distinct roles in the treatment of various diseases. However, the potential role of ginsenoside Rg1 (GRg1) in the context of scald injuries remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of GRg1 on scald wound healing by utilizing a mouse scald wound model and administering varying concentrations of GRg1 orally. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was employed to identify the signaling pathways and key genes influenced by GRg1 in the wound healing process. Our findings indicate that mice treated with a low concentration of GRg1 exhibited a significantly higher wound healing rate compared with the model group and other treatment groups. Through RNA-seq, we observed that the gene expression profile in the wound tissues of the low-concentration-treated group was consistent with that of the normal control group. Furthermore, a low concentration of GRg1 was found to maintain cellular energy metabolism homeostasis by enhancing mitochondrial aerobic respiration and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. In addition, GRg1 facilitated wound healing by restoring the expression of genes associated with cell migration and adhesion. Confirming the appropriate concentration of GRg1 that accelerates tissue healing at scald sites and enhances our understanding of the efficacy and molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of natural products in disease treatment.

Comparative Effectiveness of Diode Laser Therapy and Topical Turmeric Extract Ointment in Promoting Healing of Wounds in a Murine Model.

The intricate biological process of wound healing is influenced by a wide range of therapeutic techniques. In this work, the effects of topical turmeric extract ointment and diode laser therapy on wound healing in a mouse model were investigated. Out of the sixty mice, three groups of twenty male mice each were created. Three groups received treatment: the first was a control group that got no treatment; the second group received topical application of 5% curcumin twice a day; and the third group received diode laser therapy, which involved direct laser beam therapy for five minutes a day at an output power of 100 mW at an 810 nm wavelength. Over the course of two weeks, the study examined histological changes and wound closure rates. On days 0 through 14, the wound area was measured with digital calipers to provide quantifiable statistics about the process of healing. In histological analyses, epithelializations, and collagen deposition, in addition to inflammatory cells, were investigated using hematoxylin and eosin staining. It was demonstrated by comparing the outcomes to those of a control group that diode laser therapy and turmeric extract ointment are both successful therapeutic options. The results demonstrate that different therapies, while with differing degrees of effectiveness, greatly quicken the healing process of wounds. According to these results, topical turmeric extract ointment could be used as an additional or supporting therapy to aid in the healing of wounds during medical treatments.

Silver-Treated Silk Fibroin Scaffolds for Prevention of Critical Wound Infections

The risk of infections in chronic wounds represents a serious issue, particularly in aged people and in patients affected by diseases such as diabetes and obesity. Moreover, the growing resistance demonstrated by many bacterial strains has significantly reduced the therapeutic options for clinicians and has become a great challenge for the researchers in the definition of novel approaches that promote the wound healing process and reduce the healing time. Tissue engineering approaches based on biomaterials and three-dimensional scaffolds have demonstrated huge potential in supporting cell proliferation; among them, Bombyx mori-derived silk fibroin is a very appealing possibility for the development of devices with regenerative properties for wound healing applications. However, due to the high risk of infections in chronic wounds, an antibacterial treatment is also strongly encouraged for preventing bacterial proliferation at the wound site. In this work, to develop a device with regenerative and antibacterial properties, antibacterial silver coatings were deposited onto silk fibroin scaffolds, and the effect of the treatment in terms of chemical–physical and microbiological properties was investigated. The results demonstrated that the silver treatment improved the mechanical properties of the protein scaffold and provided good antibacterial efficacy against representative bacterial strains in wound infection, namely Escherichia coli and antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Enhancing wound healing through innovative technologies: microneedle patches and iontophoresis.

Wound healing is a complex process involving multiple stages, including inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Effective wound management strategies are essential for accelerating healing and improving outcomes. The CELLADEEP patch, incorporating iontophoresis therapy and microneedle technology, was evaluated for its potential to enhance the wound healing process. This study utilized a full-thickness skin defect model in Sprague-Dawley rats, researchers compared wound healing outcomes between rats treated with the CELLADEEP Patch and those left untreated. Various histological staining techniques were employed to examine and assess the wound healing process, such as H&E, MT and immunofluorescence staining. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory and proliferative capabilities were further investigated using biochemical assays. Macroscopic and microscopic analyses revealed that the CELLADEEP patch significantly accelerated wound closure, reduced wound width, and increased epidermal thickness and collagen deposition compared to an untreated group. The CELLADEEP patch decreased nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species levels, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, indicating effective modulation of the inflammatory response. Immunofluorescence staining showed reduced markers of macrophage activity (CD68, F4/80, MCP-1) in the patch group, suggesting a controlled inflammation process. Increased levels of vimentin, α-SMA, VEGF, collagen I, and TGF-β1 were observed, indicating enhanced fibroblast activity, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix production. The CELLADEEP patch demonstrated potential in promoting effective wound healing by accelerating wound closure, modulating the inflammatory response, and enhancing tissue proliferation and remodeling. The CELLADEEP patch offers a promising non-invasive treatment option for improving wound healing outcomes.

An Update on Molecular Mechanisms of Scarring-A Narrative Review.

Fibroblasts, the principal cellular mediators of connective tissue remodeling, play a crucial role in the formation of physiological and pathological scars. Understanding the intricate interplay between fibroblasts and other cellular and molecular components is essential for elucidating the underlying mechanisms driving scar formation. Hypertrophic scars, keloids and atrophic scars arise from dysregulated wound healing processes characterized by persistent inflammation, aberrant collagen deposition, and impaired extracellular matrix remodeling. Fibroblasts play a central role in the pathogenesis of such pathological scars, driving aberrant extracellular matrix remodeling, subsequently contributing to the formation of raised or depressed fibrotic lesions. The investigation of complex interactions between fibroblasts and the microenvironment is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating fibroblast activity and improving clinical outcomes in patients with pathological scars. Further research into the molecular pathways governing fibroblast behavior and their heterogeneity holds promise for advancing scar management strategies. This narrative review was performed to shed light on the mechanisms behind scar formation, with a special focus on the role of fibroblasts in the formation of different types of scars, providing insights into the pathophysiology of these conditions. Through the analysis of current knowledge, this review seeks to identify the key cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in fibroblast activation, collagen synthesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling in hypertrophic scar, keloid, or atrophic scar formation.

Assessing the Influence of Hyaluronan Dressing on Wound Healing on Split-Thickness Skin Graft Donor Sites Using a Three-Dimensional Scanner.

Objectives: The topical application of hyaluronic acid after injury may accelerate the wound healing process. We aimed to retrospectively investigate whether the topical application of hyaluronic acid on standardized wounds after split-thickness skin graft removal on the thigh would accelerate wound healing and improve scarring outcomes. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate the usefulness of three-dimensional (3D) scanning to assess scars. Methods: The wound healing process of a hyaluronan group (n = 20) and a control (n = 21) were analyzed and evaluated using 3D scans at 7 and 14 days and 1, 3, and 6 months post-operatively. Scar evaluations by the patients were conducted 6 months post-operatively using the patient and observer scar assessment scale and the Manchester scar scale. Experts evaluated the scars after 6 months using a modified version of both scales. Results: On days 7 and 14, significantly larger areas of the wound surface were closed in the hyaluronan group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). After 1 month, significantly more crusted areas remained in the control group than in the hyaluronan group (p < 0.05). At the 6-month self-assessments, the hyaluronan group evaluated their scars as being significantly better compared to the control group. Conclusions: The topical application of hyaluronic acid in combination with polyurethane foam as a wound dressing after split skin removal accelerated the wound healing rate and positively influenced scar appearance after 6 months. Three-dimensional scanning is useful for evaluating and documenting the wound healing process.

Manufacturing Radially Aligned PCL Nanofibers Reinforced With Sulfated Levan and Evaluation of its Biological Activity for Healing Tympanic Membrane Perforations.

The main objective of this study is to construct radially aligned PCL nanofibers reinforced with levan polymer and investigate their in vitro biological activities thoroughly. First Halomonas levan (HL) polysaccharide is hydrolyzed (hHL) and subjected to sulfation to attain Sulfated hydrolyzed Halomonas levan (ShHL)-based material indicating heparin mimetic properties. Then, optimization studies are carried out to produce coaxially generated radially aligned Poly(caprolactone) (PCL) -ShHL nanofibers via electrospinning. The obtained nanofibers are characterized with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray (FESEM-EDX) analysis, and mechanical, contact angle measurement, biodegradability, and swelling tests as well. Afterward, cytotoxicity of artificial tympanic membranes is analyzed by MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -2,5 Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) test, and their impacts on cell proliferation, cellular adhesion, wound healing processes are explored. Furthermore, an additional FESEM imaging is performed to manifest the interactions between fibroblasts and nanofibers. According to analytical measurements it is detected that PCL-ShHL nanofibers i) are smaller in fiber diameter, ii) are more biodegradable, iii) are more hydrophilic, and iv) demonstrated superior mechanical properties compared to PCL nanofibers. Moreover, it is also deciphered that PCL-ShHL nanofibers strongly elevated cellular adhesion, proliferation, and in vitro wound healing features compared to PCL nanofibers. According to obtained results it is assumed that newly synthetized levan and PCL mediated nanofibers are very encouraging for healing tympanic membrane perforations.

Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of Grape Seed And Onion Extract In Healing Cut Wounds In Wistar Rats

In healing cut wounds, generally many use drugs with chemicals, the use of chemicals in wound healing has a lot of negative impacts, therefore it is necessary to conduct further research on the benefits of natural ingredients such as plants to treat cut wounds, some of the advantages of using medicinal plants include relatively safer, easy to obtain, cheap, does not cause resistance, and relatively harmless to the surrounding environment or the mixture between the plants, which has been used for treatment for generations. One way to treat cut wounds is to use herbal plants because they are cheaper, easier to get, and have low side effects. Compounds that play a role in the healing process of cut wounds include flavonoids, saponins, tannins, polyphenols, and essential oils. One of the plants that has health benefits is grapes. The purpose of this study is to find out the comparison of the effectiveness of grape seeds and onion extract in healing cut wounds in wistar rats. The type of research used in this study is experimental research with a true experimental method with a post-test only control group design pattern. The sample to be used in this study is 24 rats divided into 4 groups so that each group contains 6 rats. Data analysis uses the One-Way ANOVA test. The results showed that shallot gel extract had a significant effect on the percentage of reduction in incision length.

Histological Determination of Cinnamon and Olive Oil Extract on Traumatic Oral Ulcer in Laboratory Rabbit

Background: The mucosa of oral cavity is the mucous membrane which covers the tissues of the mouth cavity. In order to repair damage from a local aggressor, many cell strains and their byproducts work together throughout the vital physiological process of wound healing. This process culminates in tissue repair and starts relatively early in the inflammatory phase. . The supplements of cinnamon and olive oil can dramatically raise blood levels of antioxidants while lowering those of inflammatory indicators like C-reactive protein. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the local histological effect of topical application of cinnamon and olive oil extract on the rabbit oral mucosa Patients and Methods: 20 adult male rabbits that weight about 700-900 Kg and age about (6-8) months where used in this experimental study. Ulcer induction: Prior to the creation of the ulcers, rats were fixed on their backs and all animals were anaesthetized and induction the ulcer with round filter papers 5.5 mm in diameter were soaked in 15 ml of 50% acetic acid. In order to create round ulcer, an acid-soaked filter paper was pressed onto the right buccal mucosa for 60 seconds. Then divided the groups according to the healing time with 10 rabbits as a control group left healed normally and 10 rabbits as an experimental group that daily used mixture of cinnamon extract and olive oil ready extract topically applied on the traumatic ulcer. The animals were sacrificed along three- and seven-days healing periods and then prepared H&amp;E stain for analyzed the results. Results: In comparison to the control group, the histological results of oral ulcers that were created and treated with a daily application of a herbal mixture consisting of cinnamon extract and olive oil extract showed greater epithelization, reduced inflammation, and increased angiogenesis, all of which sped up the healing process. Furthermore, there was a noteworthy distinction in the formation of extracellular matrix and collagen fiber synthesis between the experimental and control groups. Conclusion: Topical treatment using ready herbal extracts of olive oil and cinnamon was more successful in facilitating the recovery of traumatic ulcers.

Discussion of the Most Effective Scar Treatment Methods

Scars are a natural consequence of the wound healing process, but excessive scarring can lead to aesthetic and functional concerns. This paper aims to review current scar treatment methods, including modern techniques such as laser therapies, microneedling, corticosteroid injections, and silicone dressings. Special attention is given to the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids, which present significant challenges in contemporary medicine. An analysis of recent studies highlights the effectiveness of these methods in improving scar appearance and reducing discomfort associated with scars. Additionally, emerging experimental therapies, such as the use of stem cells and monoclonal antibody treatments, are discussed. The findings suggest that early intervention and individualized treatment approaches are crucial for achieving optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Single-cell RNA sequencing highlights the role of proinflammatory fibroblasts, vascular endothelial cells, and immune cells in the keloid immune microenvironment.

Keloids, characterized by an aberrant wound-healing process and a highly complex immune microenvironment, pose significant challenges for clinical management. Fibroblasts and vascular endothelial cells (VEC) were identified as the leading cells of keloid development. However, their roles in the keloid immune landscape have yet to be thoroughly elucidated. To explore the functional state of cells in the immune landscape of keloids, we conducted a single-cell RNA sequencing analysis on the tissue from three keloid lesions and two specimens of healthy skin. We simultaneously utilized available keloid data from the public database for external validation. Specific subsets, such as proinflammatory fibroblasts (piF) and VEC, were markedly elevated in lesional skincompared to normal skin. Subsequent differential gene expression and Gene Ontology analyses indicated that these subsets may be involved in shaping the microenvironment. In keloids, there is an increased expression of immune-associated genes (P < 0.05), including TNFRSF6B, HGF, and TGFB3, alongside a decreased expression of inflammatory chemokines in the piF. Moreover, the significant upregulation of immune suppressive genes (P < 0.05), including CD39, CD73, and HIF1A, suggested the potential involvement of VEC as a conditional immune subpopulation in the keloid microenvironment. Immune cell communication analysis revealed preferential enrichment of macrophages and Tregs, highlighting intensified macrophage-centered interactions within the keloid microenvironment. Our study highlighted the role of piF and VEC in the immune microenvironment of keloids for the first time, providing potential targets for therapeutic development.

A reduced graphene oxide-coated conductive surgical silk suture targeting microresistance sensing changes for wound healing

Conventional sutures used in surgical procedures often lack the capability to effectively monitor physical and chemical activities or the microbial environment of surgical wounds due to their inadequate mechanical properties, insufficient electrical accuracy and unstability. Here, we present a straightforward layer-by-layer coating technique that utilizes 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (CA), graphene oxide (GO), and ascorbic acid (AA) to develop conductive silk-based surgical sutures (CA-rGSFS). The CA-rGSFS feature a continuous reduced graphene oxide (rGO) film on their surface, forming robust hydrogen bonds with silk fibroin. The reduction process of rGO is confirmed through Raman analysis, demonstrating an enhanced D peak to G peak ratio. Notably, the CA-rGSFS exhibit exceptional mechanical properties and efficient electron transmission, with a knot-pull tensile strength of 2089.72 ± 1.20 cN and an electrical conductivity of 130.30 ± 11.34 S/m, respectively, meeting the requirements specified by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) for 2-0 sutures. These novel CA-rGSFS demonstrate the ability to accurately track resistance changes in various fluid environments with rapid response, including saline, intestinal, and gastric fluids. The suture also retains remarkable stretchablility and stability even after enduring 3000 tensile cycles, highlighting their potential for precise surgical site monitoring during the wound healing process.