Identification of Specific miRNAs in Neutrophils of Type 2 Diabetic Mice: Overexpression of miRNA-129-2-3p Accelerates Diabetic Wound Healing

A Multi-Responsive Hydrogel Combined With Mild Heat Stimulation Promotes Diabetic Wound Healing by Regulating Inflammatory and Enhancing Angiogenesis

The repair of diabetic wound still encounters huge challenges, such as disordered inflammatory regulation and impaired neovascularization. Here, a pH/ROS/glucose responsive and photothermal hydrogel is developed for diabetic wound healing. The hydrogel is formed through cross-linkage between phenylboronic acid-modified carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS-PBA) and oxide dextran (OXD), utilizing Schiff base and phenylboronate ester bonds. Additionally, insulin-like growth factor 1 C domain (IGF-1C) and deferoxamine-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles (D@P) are incorporated into the hydrogel. The hydrogel demonstrates sustained drug release, excellent photo thermal effect, prominent antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, desirable mechanical and tissue adhesive properties, enhanced tube formation, and cell migration. Furthermore, the hydrogel combined with mild heat treatment can regulate chronic inflammation by promoting the transformation of macrophages from M1 phenotype to M2 phenotype and enhance angiogenesis by up-regulating the expression levels of angiogenesis-related factors such as hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), CD31, and α-SMA, thus greatly accelerates the wound healing in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. Therefore, this multi-responsive and multifunctional hydrogel holds potential as a therapeutic strategy for diabetic wounds.

The emerging modulators of non-coding RNAs in diabetic wound healing

Diabetic wound healing is a complex physiological process often hindered by the underlying metabolic dysfunctions associated with diabetes. Despite existing treatments, there remains a critical need to explore innovative therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes. This article comprehensively examines the roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), specifically microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), in regulating key phases of the wound healing process: inflammation, angiogenesis, re-epithelialization, and tissue remodeling. Through a deep review of current literature, we discuss recent discoveries of ncRNAs that have been shown to either promote or impair the wound healing process in diabetic wound healing, which were not covered in earlier reviews. This review highlights the specific mechanisms by which these ncRNAs impact cellular behaviors and pathways critical to each healing stage. Our findings indicate that understanding these recently identified ncRNAs provides new insights into their potential roles in diabetic wound healing, thereby contributing valuable knowledge for future research directions in this field.

Macrophage and Neutrophil Dysfunction in Diabetic Wounds

Significance: The incidence of diabetes continues to rise throughout the world in an alarming rate. Diabetic patients often develop diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), many of which do not heal. Non-healing DFUs are a major cause of hospitalization, amputation, and increased morbidity. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of impaired healing in DFU is crucial for its management. Recent Advances: This review focuses on the recent advancements on macrophages and neutrophils in diabetic wounds and DFUs. In particular, we discuss diabetes-induced dysregulations and dysfunctions of macrophages and neutrophils. Critical Issues: It is well established that diabetic wounds are characterized by stalled inflammation that results in impaired healing. Recent findings in the field suggest that dysregulation of macrophages and neutrophils plays a critical role in impaired healing in DFUs. The delineation of mechanisms that restore macrophage and neutrophil function in diabetic wound healing is the focus of intense investigation. Future Directions: The breadth of recently generated knowledge on the activity of macrophages and neutrophils in diabetic wound healing is impressive. Experimental models have delineated pathways that hold promise for the treatment of diabetic wounds and DFUs. These pathways may be useful targets for further clinical investigation.

Catalase-templated nanozyme-loaded microneedles integrated with polymyxin B for immunoregulation and antibacterial activity in diabetic wounds

Diabetic wounds are characterized by chronic trauma, with long-term non-healing attributed to persistent inflammation and recurrent bacterial infections. Exacerbation of the inflammatory response is largely due to increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, catalase (CAT) was used as a biological template to synthesize nanozyme-supported natural enzymes (CAT-Mn(SH)x) using a biomimetic mineralization method. Subsequently, polymyxin B (CAT-Mn(SH)x@PMB) was immobilized on its surface through electrostatic assembly. CAT-Mn(SH)x@PMB demonstrates the ability for slow and sustained release of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Finally, CAT-Mn(SH)x@PMB loaded microneedles (MNs) substrate were synthesized using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and named CAT-(MnSH)x@PMB-MNs. It exhibited enhanced enzyme and antioxidant activities, along with effective antibacterial properties. Validation findings indicate that it can up-regulate the level of M2 macrophages and reduce the level of pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Additionally, it promotes angiogenesis and rapid nerve regeneration, thereby facilitating wound healing through its dual anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Hence,this study introduces a time-space tissue-penetrating and soluble microneedle patch with dual anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects for the treatment of diabetic wounds.

Molecular immunological mechanisms of impaired wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), current therapeutic strategies and future directions

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a foremost cause of amputation in diabetic patients. Consequences of DFU include infections, decline in limb function, hospitalization, amputation, and in severe cases, death. Immune cells including macrophages, regulatory T cells, fibroblasts and other damage repair cells work in sync for effective healing and in establishment of a healthy skin barrier post-injury. Immune dysregulation during the healing of wounds can result in wound chronicity. Hyperglycemic conditions in diabetic patients influence the pathophysiology of wounds by disrupting the immune system as well as promoting neuropathy and ischemic conditions, making them difficult to heal. Chronic wound microenvironment is characterized by increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases, reactive oxygen species as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines, resulting in persistent inflammation and delayed healing. Novel treatment modalities including growth factor therapies, nano formulations, microRNA based treatments and skin grafting approaches have significantly augmented treatment efficiency, demonstrating creditable efficacy in clinical practices. Advancements in local treatments as well as invasive methodologies, for instance formulated wound dressings, stem cell applications and immunomodulatory therapies have been successful in targeting the complex pathophysiology of chronic wounds. This review focuses on elucidating the intricacies of emerging physical and non-physical therapeutic interventions, delving into the realm of advanced wound care and comprehensively summarizing efficacy of evidence-based therapies for DFU currently available.

Modulating the immune system towards a functional chronic wound healing: A biomaterials and Nanomedicine perspective

Chronic non-healing wounds persist as a substantial burden for healthcare systems, influenced by factors such as aging, diabetes, and obesity. In contrast to the traditionally pro-regenerative emphasis of therapies, the recognition of the immune system integral role in wound healing has significantly grown, instigating an approach shift towards immunological processes. Thus, this review explores the wound healing process, highlighting the engagement of the immune system, and delving into the behaviors of innate and adaptive immune cells in chronic wound scenarios. Moreover, the article investigates biomaterial-based strategies for the modulation of the immune system, elucidating how the adjustment of their physicochemical properties or their synergistic combination with other agents such as drugs, proteins or mesenchymal stromal cells can effectively modulate the behaviors of different immune cells. Finally this review explores various strategies based on synthetic and biological nanostructures, including extracellular vesicles, to finely tune the immune system as natural immunomodulators or therapeutic nanocarriers with promising biophysical properties.

Epigenetic modification: A novel insight into diabetic wound healing

Wound healing is an intricate and fine regulatory process. In diabetic patients, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), biofilm formation, persistent inflammation, and angiogenesis regression contribute to delayed wound healing. Epigenetics, the fast-moving science in the 21st century, has been up to date and associated with diabetic wound repair. In this review, we go over the functions of epigenetics in diabetic wound repair in retrospect, covering transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation. Among these, we found that histone modification is widely involved in inflammation and angiogenesis by affecting macrophages and endothelial cells. DNA methylation is involved in factors regulation in wound repair but also affects the differentiation phenotype of cells in hyperglycemia. In addition, noncodingRNA regulation and RNA modification in diabetic wound repair were also generalized. The future prospects for epigenetic applications are discussed in the end. In conclusion, the study suggests that epigenetics is an integral regulatory mechanism in diabetic wound healing.

Two ferroptosis-specific expressed genes NOX4 and PARP14 are considered as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic retinopathy and atherosclerosis

OBJECTIVES

Both Diabetic retinopathy (DR) and Atherosclerosis (AS) are common complications in patients with diabetes, and they share major pathophysiological similarities and have a common pathogenesis. Studies performed to date have demonstrated that ferroptosis plays a vital part in the occurrence and development of DR and AS, but its mechanism in the two diseases remains poorly understood.

METHODS

DR Chip data (GSE60436 and GSE102485) and AS chip data (GSE100927 and GSE57691) were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The screening of the differential expression genes (DEGs) was analyzed using the limma package, and the genes related to ferroptosis were obtained from the FerrDb V2 database. Two key genes (NOX4 and PARP14) were identified through external datasets validation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Gene Ontology (GO) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) were used to conduct a functional enrichment analysis, and miRNA-mRNA networks were established. The CIBERSORT algorithm was applied to identify the immune cell infiltration between the disease group and control group. Next, the correlations between key genes and infiltrating immune cells were investigated by the Spearman method. Finally, the correlation between 2 key genes and ferroptosis markers was confirmed.

RESULTS

Nine ferroptosis differentially expressed genes (DE-FRGs) between DR and AS were identified in this study. NOX4 and PARP14 were selected as key genes for further analysis by external datasets and ROC curve analysis. The key genes NOX4, PARP14 and their correlated genes (such as CYBA, NOX1, NOX3, CYBB, PARP9, PARP10, and PARP15) are mainly enriched in oxidoreductase activity, protein ADP-ribosylation, superoxide metabolic process, reactive oxygen species metabolic process, PID pathway, and VEGFA-VEGFR2 pathway. A miRNA-mRNA network was constructed, and we got 12 miRNAs correlated with the target gene NOX4, 38 miRNAs correlated with the target gene PARP14. Three common miRNAs (hsa-miR-1-3p, hsa-miR-129-2-3p, and hsa-miR-155-5p) were observed in the network. Immune infiltration analysis displayed that activated B cell, MDSC, and Type 17 T helper cell are the common immune cells involved in the immune infiltration process of DR and AS. The results revealed that there are significant correlations between two key genes and most ferroptosis marker genes no matter in DR or AS.

CONCLUSION

Ferroptosis-related genes NOX4 and PARP14 may be common biomarkers of DR and AS. Both were associated with immune infiltration in patients with DR and AS. Our data provide a theoretical basis for the early diagnosis and immunotherapy of the two diseases.

Epigenetic integration of signaling from the regenerative environment

Skeletal muscle has an extraordinary capacity to regenerate itself after injury due to the presence of tissue-resident muscle stem cells. While these muscle stem cells are the primary contributor to the regenerated myofibers, the process occurs in a regenerative microenvironment where multiple different cell types act in a coordinated manner to clear the damaged myofibers and restore tissue homeostasis. In this regenerative environment, immune cells play a well-characterized role in initiating repair by establishing an inflammatory state that permits the removal of dead cells and necrotic muscle tissue at the injury site. More recently, it has come to be appreciated that the immune cells also play a crucial role in communicating with the stem cells within the regenerative environment to help coordinate the timing of repair events through the secretion of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors. Evidence also suggests that stem cells can help modulate the extent of the inflammatory response by signaling to the immune cells, demonstrating a cross-talk between the different cells in the regenerative environment. Here, we review the current knowledge on the innate immune response to sterile muscle injury and provide insight into the epigenetic mechanisms used by the cells in the regenerative niche to integrate the cellular cross-talk required for efficient muscle repair.

miR-129-2-3p mediates LPS-induced macrophage polarization and ferroptosis by targeting the SMAD3-GPX4 axis

Macrophages has become a promising target of sepsis treatment because macrophages dysfunction contributes to the progress of sepsis. The targeted therapy of sepsis based on macrophages ferroptosis is drawing more and more attention, but the molecular mechanism involved is poorly understood. In this study, Mus musculus-derived macrophages were used for in-vitro experiments. We found that LPS could induce ferroptosis in macrophages via the detection of apoptosis, GSH, lipid peroxide and GPX4 levels. Meanwhile, miR-129-2-3p was up-regulated in macrophages exposure to LPS. Next, we confirmed that miR-129-2-3p promoted the LPS-induced polarization of M1 phenotype in macrophages via the detection of Arg-1 and iNOS levels; miR-129-2-3p promoted the LPS-induced ferroptosis in macrophages. Further, luciferase assay showed that SMAD3 was identified as a target gene of miR-129-2-3p and its expression was negatively regulated by miR-129-2-3p and LPS. SMAD3 could inhibit the LPS-induced polarization of M1 phenotype and ferroptosis in macrophages by targeting GPX4. Collectively, we demonstrated the target gene and molecular mechanism of miR-129-2-3p mediating LPS-induced polarization and ferroptosis in macrophages by targeting the SMAD3-GPX4 axis, which would provide a novel strategy for sepsis targeted therapy based on macrophages polarization and ferroptosis.

Exosomal miRNA-155-5p from M1-polarized macrophages suppresses angiogenesis by targeting GDF6 to interrupt diabetic wound healing

Unprogrammed macrophage polarization, especially prolonged activation of proinflammatory macrophages, is associated with delayed wound healing in diabetic objectives. Macrophage-derived exosomes cargo a variety of microRNAs (miRNAs), participating in different stages in wound healing. Here, exosomes were isolated from naive bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) (M0-Exos), interferon-γ plus lipopolysaccharide-polarized BMDMs (M1-Exos), and interleukin-4-polarized BMDMs (M2-Exos). M1-Exos impaired migration and tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) compared to M0-Exos, whereas M2-Exos exhibited the opposite effects. High-throughput sequencing was performed to decipher the miRNA expression profiles in M0-Exos, M1-Exos, and M2-Exos. A total of 63 miRNAs were identified to be differentially expressed in exosomes derived from polarized BMDMs. Among them, miRNA-155-5p is highly expressed in M1-Exos, which interrupted angiogenesis in HUVECs. Furthermore, miRNA-155-5p directly binds to the 3' UTR of growth differentiation factor 6 (GDF6) mRNA to suppress its protein expression. Lastly, local administration of a temperature-sensitive hydrogel Pluronic F-127 loading miRNA-155-5p antagomiR promoted angiogenesis and accelerated wound healing in diabetic db/db mice via enhancing GDF6. In summary, this study deciphered the miRNA expression profiles in exosomes from polarized macrophages. M2-like macrophage-derived exosomes and miRNA-155-5p inhibitors could be promising therapeutics against diabetic foot ulcers.

The role of neutrophils in diabetic ulcers and targeting therapeutic strategies

Diabetic ulcers (DUs) are a common complication of diabetes with high morbidity, poor prognosis, and a high socio-economic burden. The main pathological manifestations of DUs are chronic inflammation, impaired re-epithelialization, and impaired angiogenesis. During the inflammatory phase, neutrophils are one of the main DU cell types and act by releasing neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), leading to poor healing in DUs. This review summarizes the role of neutrophils in the pathology and treatment of DUs, with a view to potential novel therapies and therapeutic targets.

Cardiovascular complications of diabetes: role of non-coding RNAs in the crosstalk between immune and cardiovascular systems

Diabetes mellitus, a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high levels of blood glucose caused by insulin defect or impairment, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and related mortality. Patients with diabetes experience a state of chronic or intermittent hyperglycemia resulting in damage to the vasculature, leading to micro- and macro-vascular diseases. These conditions are associated with low-grade chronic inflammation and accelerated atherosclerosis. Several classes of leukocytes have been implicated in diabetic cardiovascular impairment. Although the molecular pathways through which diabetes elicits an inflammatory response have attracted significant attention, how they contribute to altering cardiovascular homeostasis is still incompletely understood. In this respect, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a still largely under-investigated class of transcripts that may play a fundamental role. This review article gathers the current knowledge on the function of ncRNAs in the crosstalk between immune and cardiovascular cells in the context of diabetic complications, highlighting the influence of biological sex in such mechanisms and exploring the potential role of ncRNAs as biomarkers and targets for treatments. The discussion closes by offering an overview of the ncRNAs involved in the increased cardiovascular risk suffered by patients with diabetes facing Sars-CoV-2 infection.

Neutrophil (dys)function due to altered immuno-metabolic axis in type 2 diabetes: implications in combating infections

Metabolic and inflammatory pathways are highly interdependent, and both systems are dysregulated in Type 2 diabetes (T2D). T2D is associated with pre-activated inflammatory signaling networks, aberrant cytokine production and increased acute phase reactants which leads to a pro-inflammatory 'feed forward loop'. Nutrient 'excess' conditions in T2D with hyperglycemia, elevated lipids and branched-chain amino acids significantly alter the functions of immune cells including neutrophils. Neutrophils are metabolically active cells and utilizes energy from glycolysis, stored glycogen and β-oxidation while depending on the pentose phosphate pathway for NADPH for performing effector functions such as chemotaxis, phagocytosis and forming extracellular traps. Metabolic changes in T2D result in constitutive activation and impeded acquisition of effector or regulatory activities of neutrophils and render T2D subjects for recurrent infections. Increased flux through the polyol and hexosamine pathways, elevated production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and activation of protein kinase C isoforms lead to (a) an enhancement in superoxide generation; (b) the stimulation of inflammatory pathways and subsequently to (c) abnormal host responses. Neutrophil dysfunction diminishes the effectiveness of wound healing, successful tissue regeneration and immune surveillance against offending pathogens. Hence, Metabolic reprogramming in neutrophils determines frequency, severity and duration of infections in T2D. The present review discusses the influence of the altered immuno-metabolic axis on neutrophil dysfunction along with challenges and therapeutic opportunities for clinical management of T2D-associated infections.

Why traditional herbal medicine promotes wound healing: Research from immune response, wound microbiome to controlled delivery

Impaired wound healing in chronic wounds has been a significant challenge for clinicians and researchers for decades. Traditional herbal medicine (THM) has a long history of promoting wound healing, making them culturally accepted and trusted by a great number of people in the world. However, for a long time, the understanding of herbal medicine has been limited and incomplete, particularly in the allopathic medicine-dominated research system. The therapeutic effects of individual components isolated from THM are found less pronounced compared to synthetic chemical medicine, and the clinical efficacy is always inferior to herbs. In the present article, we review and discuss underlying mechanisms of the skin microbiome involved in the wound healing process; THM in regulating immune responses and commensal microbiome. We additionally propose few pioneer ideas and studies in the development of therapeutic strategies for controlled delivery of herbal medicine. This review aims to promote wound care with a focus on wound microbiome, immune response, and topical drug delivery systems. Finally, future development trends, challenges, and research directions are discussed.

A 3-miRNA Risk Scoring Signature in Early Diabetic Retinopathy

PURPOSE

The aim of our study was to investigate a comprehensive profile of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced early diabetic retinopathy (DR) mice to identify a risk scoring signature based on micorRNAs (miRNAs) for early DR diagnosis.

METHODS

RNA sequencing was performed to obtain the gene expression profile of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in early STZ-induced mice. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined with log2|fold change (FC)| > 1 and p value < 0.05. Functional analysis was carried out based on gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. We predicted the potential miRNAs via online tools and ROC curves were then conducted. Three potential miRNAs with AUC > 0.7 were explored via public datasets and a formula was further established to evaluate DR severity.

RESULTS

In total, 298 DEGs (200 up-regulating and 98 down-regulating) were obtained through RNA sequencing. Hsa-miR-26a-5p, hsa-miR-129-2-3p and hsa-miR-217 were three predicted miRNAs with AUC > 0.7, suggesting their potential to distinguish healthy controls from early DR. The formula of DR severity score = 19.257 - 0.004 × hsa-miR-217 + 5.09 × 10^-5 × hsa-miR-26a-5p - 0.003 × hsa-miR-129-2-3p was established based on regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, we investigated the candidate genes and molecular mechanisms based on RPE sequencing in early DR mice models. Hsa-miR-26a-5p, hsa-miR-129-2-3p and hsa-miR-217 could work as biomarkers for early DR diagnosis and DR severity prediction, which was beneficial for DR early intervention and treatment.

Exosomal-miR-129-2-3p derived from Fusobacterium nucleatum-infected intestinal epithelial cells promotes experimental colitis through regulating TIMELESS-mediated cellular senescence pathway

Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) infection is known to exacerbate ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the link between Fn-infected intestinal epithelial cell (IEC)-derived exosomes (Fn-Exo) and UC progression has not been investigated. Differentially expressed miRNAs in Fn-Exo and non-infected IECs-derived exosomes (Con-Exo) were identified by miRNA sequencing. Then, the biological role and mechanism of Fn-Exo in UC development were determined in vitro and in vivo. We found that exosomes delivered miR-129-2-3p from Fn-infected IECs into non-infected IECs, exacerbating epithelial barrier dysfunction and experimental colitis. Mechanically, Fn-Exo induces DNA damage via the miR-129-2-3p/TIMELESS axis and subsequently activates the ATM/ATR/p53 pathway, ultimately promoting cellular senescence and colonic inflammation. In conclusion, Exo-miR-129-2-3p/TIMELESS/ATM/ATR/p53 pathway aggravates cellular senescence, barrier damage, and experimental colitis. The current study revealed a previously unknown regulatory pathway in the progression of Fn-infectious UC. Furthermore, Exosomal-miR-129-2-3p in serum and TIMELESS may function as novel potential diagnostic biomarkers for UC and Fn-high-UC.

Identification of Novel Hub Genes Associated with Psoriasis Using Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis

Psoriasis is a chronic, prolonged, and recurrent inflammatory skin disease and the current therapeutics can only alleviate the symptoms rather than cure it completely. Therefore, we aimed to identify the molecular signatures and specific biomarkers of psoriasis to provide novel clues for psoriasis and targeted therapy. In the present study, the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to retrieve three microarray datasets (GSE166388, GSE50790 and GSE42632) and to explore the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in psoriasis using the Affy package in R software. The gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment were utilized to determine the common DEGs and their capabilities. The STRING database was used to develop DEG-encoded proteins and a protein-protein interaction network (PPI) and the Cytohubba plugin to classify hub genes. Using the NetworkAnalyst platform, we detected transcription factors (TFs), microRNAs and drug candidates interacting with hub genes. In addition, the expression levels of hub genes in HaCaT cells were detected by western blot. We screened the up- and downregulated DEGs from the transcriptome microarrays of corresponding psoriasis patients. Functional enrichment of DEGs in psoriasis was mainly associated with positive regulation of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion and T cell activation, cytokine binding, cytokine activity and the Wnt signaling pathway. Through further data processing, we obtained 57 intersecting genes in the three datasets and probed them in STRING to determine the interaction of their expressed proteins and we obtained the critical 10 hub genes in the Cytohubba plugin, including TOP2A, CDKN3, MCM10, PBK, HMMR, CEP55, ASPM, KIAA0101, ESC02, and IL-1β. Using these hub genes as targets, we obtained 35 TFs and 213 miRNAs that may regulate these genes and 33 potential therapeutic agents for psoriasis. Furthermore, the expression levels of TOP2A, MCM10, PBK, ASPM, KIAA0101 and IL-1β were observably increased in HaCaT cells. In conclusion, we identified potential biomarkers, risk factors and drugs for psoriasis.

circRNAs May Be Involved in Dysfunction of Neutrophils of Type 2 Diabetic Mice through Regulation of Specific miRNAs

Diabetes is known to delay wound healing, and this delay is attributed to prolonged inflammation. We found that microRNAs (miRNAs) might be involved in the dysfunction of diabetic-derived neutrophils, and dynamics of neutrophil and chronic inflammation might be initiated by miRNA-regulated genes. Moreover, studies of miRNA function in nephropathy have suggested that circular RNAs (circRNAs), which function as sponges of miRNA to regulate their expression, are potential biomarkers and new therapeutic targets for the diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy. Accordingly, to investigate the molecular mechanism of the regulation of inflammation in diabetic-derived neutrophils, we identified circRNAs in diabetic-derived neutrophils obtained from BKS.Cg-Dock7^m +/+ Lepr^db/J (Lepr^db/db and Lepr^db/+) mice using microarrays. Neutrophils from pooled bone marrow of three diabetic and three non-diabetic mice were isolated and total RNA was extracted. Microarray analysis was performed using the Arraystar Mouse Circular RNA Array. The results showed that three circRNAs were significantly increased and six circRNAs were significantly decreased in diabetic-derived neutrophils compared with non-diabetic-derived neutrophils. The expressions of some circRNAs in diabetic-derived neutrophils were more than double those in non-diabetic-derived neutrophils. The circRNAs contain binding sites of miRNAs, which were differentially expressed in diabetic-derived neutrophils. Our results suggest that circRNAs may be involved in the regulation of inflammation in diabetic-derived neutrophils.

Rolling circle amplification (RCA) -based biosensor system for the fluorescent detection of miR-129-2-3p miRNA

Herein, a versatile fluorescent bioanalysis platform for sensitive and specific screening of target miRNA (miR-129-2-3p) was innovatively designed by applying target-induced rolling circle amplification (RCA) for efficient signal amplification. Specifically, miR-129-2-3p was used as a ligation template to facilitate its ligation with padlock probes, followed by an RCA reaction in the presence of phi29 DNA polymerase. The dsDNA fragments and products were stained by SYBR Green I and then detected by fluorescence spectrophotometry. As a result, miR-129-2-3p concentrations as low as 50 nM could be detected. Furthermore, the expression of miR-129-2-3p in breast cancer patients was about twice that in healthy people. Therefore, the results indicated that the RCA-based biosensor system could be a valuable platform for miRNA detection in clinical diagnosis and biomedical study.

Nucleic acid-based therapeutics for dermal wound healing

Non-healing wounds have long been the subject of scientific and clinical investigations. Despite breakthroughs in understanding the biology of delayed wound healing, only limited advances have been made in properly treating wounds. Recently, research into nucleic acids (NAs) such as small-interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA), plasmid DNA (pDNA), aptamers, and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) has resulted in the development of a latest therapeutic strategy for wound healing. In this regard, dendrimers, scaffolds, lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, hydrogels, and metal nanoparticles have all been explored as NA delivery techniques. However, the translational possibility of NA remains a substantial barrier. As a result, different NAs must be identified, and their distribution method must be optimized. This review explores the role of NA-based therapeutics in various stages of wound healing and provides an update on the most recent findings in the development of NA-based nanomedicine and biomaterials, which may offer the potential for the invention of novel therapies for this long-term condition. Further, the challenges and potential for miRNA-based techniques to be translated into clinical applications are also highlighted.

Landscape of the epigenetic regulation in wound healing

Wound healing after skin injury is a dynamic and highly coordinated process involving a well-orchestrated series of phases, including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Epigenetic regulation refers to genome-wide molecular events, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA regulation, represented by microRNA (miRNA), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA). Epigenetic regulation is pervasively occurred in the genome and emerges as a new role in gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Currently, it is well-recognized that epigenetic factors are determinants in regulating gene expression patterns, and may provide evolutionary mechanisms that influence the wound microenvironments and the entire healing course. Therefore, this review aims to comprehensively summarize the emerging roles and mechanisms of epigenetic remodeling in wound healing. Moreover, we also pose the challenges and future perspectives related to epigenetic modifications in wound healing, which would bring novel insights to accelerated wound healing.

Overexpressing HPGDS in adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells reduces inflammatory state and improves wound healing in type 2 diabetic mice

Background

In diabetes, delayed wound healing was considered as the result of excessive recruitment and retention of pro-inflammatory cells and factors. Hematopoietic prostaglandin D synthase (HPGDS) was identified from differently expressed genes of diabetic human foot skin. HPGDS is responsible for the production of prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), an inflammatory mediator. Therefore, we aim to explore whether HPGDS could be a therapeutic target in the diabetic wound (DW).

Method

In this study, we compared gene expression profilings of diabetic human foot skin and non-diabetic human foot skin from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. We detected the characteristics of immune components in diabetic mice wound and investigated the role and underlying mechanism of the differently expressed Hpgds for the diabetic wound healing. For in vivo studies, we engineered ADSC to overexpress Hpgds (ADSC^Hpgds) and evaluated its effects on diabetic wound healing using a full-thickness skin wound model. For in vitro studies, we evaluated the role of ADSC^Hpgds conditioned medium and PGD2 on Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced macrophage.

Results

Hpgds was significantly down-regulated in type 2 diabetic mice wound and its deficiency delayed normal wound healing. ADSC^Hpgds accelerated DW healing by reducing neutrophil and CD8T cell recruitment, promoting M2 macrophage polarization and increasing the production of growth factors. ADSC^Hpgds conditioned medium showed superior capability in promoting M2 macrophage transition than conditioned medium derived from ADSC alone.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that Hpgds is required for wound healing, and ADSC^Hpgds could accelerate DW healing by improving anti-inflammatory state and normalizing the proliferation phase of wound healing in mice. These findings provide a new insight in the therapeutic strategy of diabetic wound.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03082-w.

The Emerging Role of Immune Cells and Targeted Therapeutic Strategies in Diabetic Wounds Healing

Poor wound healing in individuals with diabetes has long plagued clinicians, and immune cells play key roles in the inflammation, proliferation and remodeling that occur in wound healing. When skin integrity is damaged, immune cells migrate to the wound bed through the actions of chemokines and jointly restore tissue homeostasis and barrier function by exerting their respective biological functions. An imbalance of immune cells often leads to ineffective and disordered inflammatory responses. Due to the maladjusted microenvironment, the wound is unable to smoothly transition to the proliferation and remodeling stage, causing it to develop into a chronic refractory wound. However, chronic refractory wounds consistently lead to negative outcomes, such as long treatment cycles, high hospitalization rates, high medical costs, high disability rates, high mortality rates, and many adverse consequences. Therefore, strategies that promote the rational distribution and coordinated development of immune cells during wound healing are very important for the treatment of diabetic wounds (DW). Here, we explored the following aspects by performing a literature review: 1) the current situation of DW and an introduction to the biological functions of immune cells; 2) the role of immune cells in DW; and 3) existing (or undeveloped) therapies targeting immune cells to promote wound healing to provide new ideas for basic research, clinical treatment and nursing of DW.

UVB irradiation differential regulate miRNAs expression in skin photoaging

Background

UVB irradiation can cause acute damage such as sunburn, or photoaging and melanoma, all of which are major health threats.

Objective

This study was designed to investigate the mechanism of skin photoaging induced by UVB radiation in mice through the analysis of the differential expression of miRNAs.

Methods

A UVB irradiation photoaging model was constructed. HE and Masson special stains were used to examine the modifications in the epidermis and dermis of mice. The miRNA expression profiles of the mouse skin model exposed to UVB radiation and the normal skin of mice were analyzed using miRNA-sequence analysis. GO and Pathway analysis were employed for the prediction of miRNA targets.

Results

A total of 23 miRNAs were evaluated for significantly different expressions in comparison to normal skin. Among them, 7 miRNAs were up-regulated and 16 were down-regulated in the skin with photoaging of mice exposed to UVB irradiation. The differential expression of miRNA is related to a variety of signal transduction pathways, among which mmu-miR-195a-5p and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal pathways are crucial. There was a significant differential expression of miRNA in the skin of normal mice in comparison with the skin with photoaging induced by UVB irradiation.

Study limitations

Due to time and energy constraints, the specific protein level verification, MAPK pathway exploration, and miR-195a-5p downstream molecular mechanism need to be further studied in the future.

Conclusions

UVB-induced skin photoaging can be diagnosed and treated using miRNA.

Resveratrol Enhances Wound Healing in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus by Promoting the Expression of Extracellular Vesicle-Carried MicroRNA-129 Derived from Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Recent studies have shown the promotive effect of resveratrol on wound healing. This study aims to explore the underlying molecular mechanism of resveratrol in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) through microRNA (miR)-129-containing extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) based on in silico analysis. The rat model of T1DM was established by intraperitoneal injection of sodium citrate containing streptozotocin, and the wound was made around the deep fascia. Rat MSCs were isolated and treated with resveratrol (SRT501), and the corresponding EVs (SRT501-EVs) were isolated, where the expression of miR-129 was determined. By performing function experiments, the effect of SRT501-EVs and miR-129 on the biological functions of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was determined. Finally, the binding relationship between miR-129 and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) was also determined by the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. miR-129 was shown as a candidate related to both resveratrol and wound healing in T1DM. SRT501-EVs promoted the skin wound healing of T1DM rats and also further improved the proliferative, migratory, and tube formation potentials of HUVECs. Resveratrol inhibited the expression of TRAF6 in HUVECs stimulated by MSC-conditioned medium and promoted the transfer of miR-129 via EVs, while TRAF6 was confirmed as a target gene of miR-129. Furthermore, inhibition of miR-129 attenuated the proangiogenic effect of resveratrol on HUVECs. Resveratrol exerts promotive role in wound healing in T1DM through downregulation of TRAF6 via MSC-EV-carried miR-129, suggesting a regulatory network involved in the wound healing process in T1DM.

Pathogenesis and treatment of wound healing in patients with diabetes after tooth extraction

Diabetes mellitus is a common systematic chronic disease amongst dental patients. The elevated glucose microenvironment can prolong the healing of tooth extraction sockets. Therefore, the promotion of healing up tooth extraction sockets is of great clinical importance to the patients with diabetes mellitus. The current evidence indicates the mechanism of the recovery period of extraction sockets in hyperglycaemia conditions from physiological, inflammation, immune, endocrine and neural aspects. New advancements have been made in varied curative approaches and drugs in the management of wound healing of tooth extraction sockets in diabetes. However, most of the interventions are still in the stage of animal experiments, and whether it can be put into clinical application still needs further explorations. Specifically, our work showed topical administration of plasma-rich growth factor, advanced platelet-rich fibrin, leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin and hyaluronic acid as well as maxillary immediate complete denture is regarded as a promising approach for clinical management of diabetic patients requiring extractions. Overall, recent studies present a blueprint for new advances in novel and effective approaches for this worldwide health ailment and tooth extraction sockets healing.

Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Promote Proliferation of Degenerated Nucleus Pulposus Cells and the Synthesis of Extracellular Matrix Through the SOX4/Wnt/β-Catenin Axis

Objective: Intervertebral disk degeneration (IDD) is a major cause of pain in the back, neck, and radiculus. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are therapeutic in musculoskeletal degenerative diseases such as IDD. This study explored the effect and functional mechanism of human bone MSCs (hBMSCs)-derived EVs in proliferation and apoptosis of degenerated nucleus pulposus cells (DNPCs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis.

Methods: Extracellular vesicles were isolated from hBMSCs and identified. DNPCs were induced by TNF-α. EVs were incubated with DNPCs for 24h. Internalization of EVs by DNPCs, DNPCs proliferation, apoptosis, and expressions of ECM synthetic genes, degrading genes and miR-129-5p were assessed. Downstream target genes of miR-129-5p were predicted. Target relation between miR-129-5p and SRY-box transcription factor 4 (SOX4) was verified. DNPCs proliferation, apoptosis, and ECM synthesis were measured after treatment with EVs and miR-129-5p inhibitor or SOX4 overexpression. Expressions of SOX4 and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins were determined.

Results: hBMSC-EVs promoted DNPCs proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, increased expressions of ECM synthetic genes, and reduced expressions of ECM degrading genes. hBMSC-EVs carried miR-129-5p into DNPCs. Silencing miR-129-5p in EVs partially inverted the effect of EVs on DNPCs proliferation and ECM synthesis. miR-129-5p targeted SOX4. SOX4 overexpression annulled the effect of EVs on DNPCs proliferation and ECM synthesis. Expressions of Wnt1 and β-catenin were decreased in EVs-treated DNPCs, while silencing miR-129-5p in EVs promoted expressions of Wnt1 and β-catenin.

Conclusion: hBMSC-EVs promoted DNPCs proliferation and ECM synthesis by carrying miR-129-5p into DNPCs to target SOX4 and deactivating the Wnt/β-catenin axis.

Harnessing Multifaceted Next-Generation Technologies for Improved Skin Wound Healing

Dysregulation of sequential and synchronized events of skin regeneration often results in the impairment of chronic wounds. Conventional wound dressings fail to trigger the normal healing mechanism owing to the pathophysiological conditions. Tissue engineering approaches that deal with the fabrication of dressings using various biomaterials, growth factors, and stem cells have shown accelerated healing outcomes. However, most of these technologies are associated with difficulties in scalability and cost-effectiveness of the products. In this review, we survey the latest developments in wound healing strategies that have recently emerged through the multidisciplinary approaches of bioengineering, nanotechnology, 3D bioprinting, and similar cutting-edge technologies to overcome the limitations of conventional therapies. We also focus on the potential of wearable technology that supports complete monitoring of the changes occurring in the wound microenvironment. In addition, we review the role of advanced devices that can precisely enable the delivery of nanotherapeutics, oligonucleotides, and external stimuli in a controlled manner. These technological advancements offer the opportunity to actively influence the regeneration process to benefit the treatment regime further. Finally, the clinical relevance, trajectory, and prospects of this field have been discussed in brief that highlights their potential in providing a beneficial wound care solution at an affordable cost.

An excellent antibacterial and high self-adhesive hydrogel can promote wound fully healing driven by its shrinkage under NIR

The lacks of antibacterial properties, low adhesion and delayed wound healing of the hydrogel wound dressings limit their applications in wound treatment. To resolve these, a novel hydrogel composed of polydopamine (PDA), Ag and graphene oxide (GO) is fabricated for wound dressing via the chemical crosslinking of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) and N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide (BIS). The prepared hydrogel containing PDA@Ag5GO1 (Ag5GO1 denotes the mass ratio between Ag and GO is 5:1) exhibits effective antibacterial properties and high inhibition rate against E. coli and S. aureus. It shows high adhesion ability to various substrate materials, implying a simpler method to the wound obtained by self-fixing rather than suturing. More important, it can produce strong contractility under the irradiation of near-infrared light (NIR), exerting a centripetal force that helps accelerate wound healing. Thus, the hydrogel containing a high concentration PDA@Ag5GO1 irradiated by NIR can completely repair the wound defect (1.0 × 1.0 cm²) within 15 days, the wound healing rate can reach 100%, which was far higher than other groups. Taken together, the new hydrogel with excellent antibacterial, high adhesion and strong contractility will subvert the traditional treatment methods on wound defect, extending its new application range in wound dressing.

Biomimetic Hydrogels to Promote Wound Healing

Wound healing is a common physiological process which consists of a sequence of molecular and cellular events that occur following the onset of a tissue lesion in order to reconstitute barrier between body and external environment. The inherent properties of hydrogels allow the damaged tissue to heal by supporting a hydrated environment which has long been explored in wound management to aid in autolytic debridement. However, chronic non-healing wounds require added therapeutic features that can be achieved by incorporation of biomolecules and supporting cells to promote faster and better healing outcomes. In recent decades, numerous hydrogels have been developed and modified to match the time scale for distinct stages of wound healing. This review will discuss the effects of various types of hydrogels on wound pathophysiology, as well as the ideal characteristics of hydrogels for wound healing, crosslinking mechanism, fabrication techniques and design considerations of hydrogel engineering. Finally, several challenges related to adopting hydrogels to promote wound healing and future perspectives are discussed.

Approaches to Modulate the Chronic Wound Environment Using Localized Nucleic Acid Delivery

Significance: Nonhealing wounds have been the subject of decades of basic and clinical research. Despite new knowledge about the biology of impaired wound healing, little progress has been made in treating chronic wounds, leaving patients with few therapeutic options. Diabetic ulcers are a particularly common form of nonhealing wound. Recent Advances: Recently, investigation of therapeutic nucleic acids (TNAs), including plasmid DNA, small interfering RNA, microRNA mimics, anti-microRNA oligonucleotides, messenger RNA, and antisense oligonucleotides, has created a new treatment strategy for chronic wounds. TNAs can modulate the wound toward a prohealing environment by targeting gene pathways associated with inflammation, proteases, cell motility, angiogenesis, epithelialization, and oxidative stress. A variety of delivery systems have been investigated for TNAs, including dendrimers, lipid nanoparticles (NPs), polymeric micelles, polyplexes, metal NPs, and hydrogels. This review summarizes recent developments in TNA delivery for therapeutic targets associated with chronic wounds, with an emphasis on diabetic ulcers. Critical Issues: Translational potential of TNAs remains a key challenge; we highlight some drug delivery approaches for TNAs that may hold promise. We also describe current commercial efforts to locally deliver nucleic acids to modulate the wound environment. Future Directions: Localized nucleic acid delivery holds promise for the treatment of nonhealing chronic wounds. Future efforts to improve targeting of these nucleic acid therapies in the wound with both spatial and temporal control through drug delivery systems will be crucial to successful clinical translation.

Clinical significance of serum miR-129-5p in patients with diabetes mellitus presenting macrovascular complications

BACKGROUND

Diabetic macrovascular complications (DMCs) are the most common complications encountered during the course of diabetes mellitus (DM) with extremely high mortality rates. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify specific and sensitive biomarkers for the early diagnosis of DMCs.

AIM

To investigate the expression and significance of serum miR-129-5p in patients with DM and macrovascular complications.

METHODS

Serum samples were collected from 36 healthy controls, 58 patients with DM presenting no macrovascular complications, and 62 patients with DMCs. The expression of miR-129-5p was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Pearson’s correlation assay was performed to analyze the correlation between serum miR-129-5p levels and clinical indicators. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to analyze the diagnostic value of serum miR-129-5p in patients with DM or DMCs.

RESULTS

There was a 4.378-fold and 7.369-fold increase in serum miR-129-5p expression in the DM (5.346 ± 0.405) and DMCs (8.998 ± 0.631) groups, respectively (P < 0.001), compared with the control group (1.221±0.090). In addition, the expression of serum miR-129-5p in patients with DMCs was higher than that in patients with DM, revealing a 1.683-fold increase (P < 0.001). Additionally, serum miR-129-5p expression significantly correlated with smoking history, disease duration, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in patients with DMCs (P < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of miR-129-5p as a serum marker was 0.964 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.930-0.997, P < 0.001) in distinguishing between patients with DM and healthy controls, whereas the AUC of miR-129-5p as a serum marker was 0.979 (95%CI: 0.959-0.999, P < 0.001) in distinguishing between patients with DMCs and healthy controls.

CONCLUSION

Elevated serum miR-129-5p expression levels correlate with the development of DMCs and can be utilized as a novel early diagnostic biomarker for DM combined with macrovascular complications.

Limited Treatment Options for Diabetic Wounds: Barriers to Clinical Translation Despite Therapeutic Success in Murine Models

Significance: Millions of people worldwide suffer from diabetes mellitus and its complications, including chronic diabetic wounds. To date, there are few widely successful clinical therapies specific to diabetic wounds beyond general wound care, despite the vast number of scientific discoveries in the pathogenesis of defective healing in diabetes. Recent Advances: In recent years, murine animal models of diabetes have enabled the investigation of many possible therapeutics for diabetic wound care. These include specific cell types, growth factors, cytokines, peptides, small molecules, plant extracts, microRNAs, extracellular vesicles, novel wound dressings, mechanical interventions, bioengineered materials, and more. Critical Issues: Despite many research discoveries, few have been translated from their success in murine models to clinical use in humans. This massive gap between bench discovery and bedside application begs the simple and critical question: what is still missing? The complexity and multiplicity of the diabetic wound makes it an immensely challenging therapeutic target, and this lopsided progress highlights the need for new methods to overcome the bench-to-bedside barrier. How can laboratory discoveries in animal models be effectively translated to novel clinical therapies for human patients? Future Directions: As research continues to decipher deficient healing in diabetes, new approaches and considerations are required to ensure that these discoveries can become translational, clinically usable therapies. Clinical progress requires the development of new, more accurate models of the human disease state, multifaceted investigations that address multiple critical components in wound repair, and more innovative research strategies that harness both the existing knowledge and the potential of new advances across disciplines.

Long noncoding RNA GAS5 accelerates diabetic wound healing and promotes lymphangiogenesis via miR-217/Prox1 axis

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is usually the leading cause of chronic non-healing wounds. LncRNA-GAS5 has been verified to be involved in the regulation of diabetes or high glucose (HG)-stimulated cells. However, its regulatory roles in diabetic wound healing need further investigation.

METHOD

GAS5, miR-217 and Prox1 were identified by qRT-PCR. MTT, flow cytometry assay, wound-healing assay and tube formation were used to analyze cell viability, apoptosis, migration and tube formation capacity. Western blotting was carried out to detect the protein expression of c-Myc, CyclinD1, CDK4, Bcl-2, Prox1, VEGFR-3 and LYVE-1. Bioinformatics and luciferase assay were performed to predict and validate the binding sites of miR-217 on GAS5 and Prox1. Immunofluorescence staining detected the expression and distribution of Prox1. The wound healing rate was also assessed by setting up the diabetic mouse model. H&E staining assessed the distribution of inflammatory cells and fibroblasts in the wound tissues.

RESULTS

GAS5 was significantly down-regulated whereas miR-217 was obviously up-regulated in diabetic skin, HG-induced lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and diabetic mouse model. GAS5 sponged miR-217 to up-regulate Prox1. GAS5 overexpression or miR-217 inhibition rescued the impairments of cell viability, migration and lymphatic vessel formation and the facilitation of apoptosis of LECs caused by HG. Similar impacts were observed on the protein level of VEGFR-3, LYVE-1, and Prox1. GAS5 promoted wound healing and lymphangiogenesis in the diabetic mouse model.

CONCLUSION

GAS5 sponged miR-217 to up-regulate Prox1 and promote lymphangiogenesis and diabetic wound healing. This might provide novel therapeutic strategy to improve the efficacy of diabetic wound healing.

Role of microRNA-129 in cancer and non-cancerous diseases (Review)

An increasing number of studies indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are involved in diverse biological signaling pathways and play important roles in the progression of various diseases, including both oncological and non-oncological diseases. These small non-coding RNAs can block translation, resulting in a low expression level of target genes. miR-129 is an miRNA that has been the focus of considerable research in recent years. A growing body of evidence shows that the miR-129 family not only functions in cancer, including osteosarcoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and ovarian, prostate, lung, breast and colon cancer, but also in non-cancerous diseases, including heart failure (HF), epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease (AD), obesity, diabetes and intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). It is therefore necessary to summarize current research progress on the role of miR-129 in different diseases. The present review includes an updated summary of the mechanisms of the miR-129 family in oncological and non-oncological diseases. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review focusing on the role of miR-129 in non-cancerous diseases such as obesity, HF, epilepsy, diabetes, IVDD and AD.

Immunology of Acute and Chronic Wound Healing

Skin wounds greatly affect the global healthcare system, creating a substantial burden on the economy and society. Moreover, the situation is exacerbated by low healing rates, which in fact are overestimated in reports. Cutaneous wounds are generally classified into acute and chronic. The immune response plays an important role during acute wound healing. The activation of immune cells and factors initiate the inflammatory process, facilitate wound cleansing and promote subsequent tissue healing. However, dysregulation of the immune system during the wound healing process leads to persistent inflammation and delayed healing, which ultimately result in chronic wounds. The microenvironment of a chronic wound is characterized by high quantities of pro-inflammatory macrophages, overexpression of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-1β, increased activity of matrix metalloproteinases and abundance of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, chronic wounds are frequently complicated by bacterial biofilms, which perpetuate the inflammatory phase. Continuous inflammation and microbial biofilms make it very difficult for the chronic wounds to heal. In this review, we discuss the role of innate and adaptive immunity in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic wounds. Furthermore, we review the latest immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies, including modifying macrophage phenotype, regulating miRNA expression and targeting pro- and anti-inflammatory factors to improve wound healing.

The progress, prospects, and challenges of the use of non-coding RNA for diabetic wounds

Chronic diabetic wounds affect the quality of life of patients, resulting in significant social and economic burdens on both individuals and the health care system. Although treatment methods for chronic diabetic wounds have been explored, there remains a lack of effective treatment strategies; therefore, alternative strategies must be explored. Recently, the abnormal expression of non-coding RNA in diabetic wounds has received widespread attention since it is an important factor in the development of diabetic wounds. This article reviews the regulatory role of three common non-coding RNAs (microRNA [miRNA], long non-coding RNA [lncRNA], and circular RNA [circRNA]) in diabetic wounds and discusses the diagnosis, treatment potential, and challenges of non-coding RNA in diabetic wounds. This article provides insights into new strategies for diabetic wound diagnosis and treatment at the genetic and molecular levels.

Transcriptional profiling and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network analysis identify the biomarkers in Sheng-ji Hua-yu formula treated diabetic wound healing

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sheng-ji Hua-yu (SJHY) formula is a traditional Chinese herbal which is effective in treating diabetic ulcers. It has been indicated to accelerate re-epithelialization and healing time of cutaneous wounds in a Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse model. However, its mechanisms remain undetermined.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To reveal the molecular mechanisms of SJHY formula in treating diabetic wounds through transcriptional profiling and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network analysis clues.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Protein expressions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β in skin tissues of wounds from SJHY formula-treated and untreated mice were analyzed by Bio-Plex assay. Differentially expressed (DE) genes were detected by whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq). Using predicted miRNA targets, circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks were constructed. Furthermore, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was utilized to validate the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks.

RESULTS

Bio-Plex assay illustrated that the protein expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 were downregulated in SJHY formula-treated diabetic wounds compared with untreated wounds. RNA-seq identified 11 DE circRNAs and 476 DE mRNAs between SJHY formula-treated and diabetic mice, including 4 upregulated and 7 downregulated circRNAs, 311 upregulated and 165 downregulated mRNAs. CircRNA-Krt13/miR-665-3p/Itga3 and circRNA-Krt14/miR-706/Mylk4 pathways were built, which may contribute to the healing of SJHY formula-treated diabetic wounds.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this study suggests that these 2 circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks are potential biomarkers for evaluation of SJHY formula efficacy in diabetic wound healing, which provides evidence to support its clinical applications.

Magnetic fields as a potential therapy for diabetic wounds based on animal experiments and clinical trials

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder with various complications that poses a huge worldwide healthcare burden. Wounds in diabetes, especially diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), are difficult to manage, often leading to prolonged wound repair and even amputation. Wound management in people with diabetes is an extremely clinical and social concern. Nowadays, physical interventions gain much attention and have been widely developed in the fields of tissue regeneration and wound healing. Magnetic fields (MFs)-based devices are translated into clinical practice for the treatment of bone diseases and neurodegenerative disorder. This review attempts to give insight into the mechanisms and applications of MFs in wound care, especially in improving the healing outcomes of diabetic wounds. First, we discuss the pathological conditions associated with chronic diabetic wounds. Next, the mechanisms involved in MFs' effects on wounds are explored. At last, studies and reports regarding the effects of MFs on diabetic wounds from both animal experiments and clinical trials are reviewed. MFs exhibit great potential in promoting wound healing and have been practised in the management of diabetic wounds. Further studies on the exact mechanism of MFs on diabetic wounds and the development of suitable MF-based devices could lead to their increased applications into clinical practice.

Advances of hydrogel dressings in diabetic wounds

The hydrogel dressings with various functions for diabetic wound treatment.

Deciphering the role of microRNAs in mustard gas-induced toxicity

Mustard gas (sulfur mustard, SM), a highly vesicating chemical warfare agent, was first deployed in warfare in 1917 and recently during the Iraq-Iran war (1980s) and Syrian conflicts (2000s); however, the threat of exposure from stockpiles and old artillery shells still looms large. Whereas research has been long ongoing on SM-induced toxicity, delineating the precise molecular pathways is still an ongoing area of investigation; thus, it is important to attempt novel approaches to decipher these mechanisms and develop a detailed network of pathways associated with SM-induced toxicity. One such avenue is exploring the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in SM-induced toxicity. Recent research on the regulatory role of miRNAs provides important results to fill in the gaps in SM toxicity-associated mechanisms. In addition, differentially expressed miRNAs can also be used as diagnostic markers to determine the extent of toxicity in exposed individuals. Thus, in our review, we have summarized the studies conducted so far in cellular and animal models, including human subjects, on the expression profiles and roles of miRNAs in SM- and/or SM analog-induced toxicity. Further detailed research in this area will guide us in devising preventive strategies, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic interventions against SM-induced toxicity.

Intestinal miRNAs regulated in response to dietary lipids

The role of miRNAs in intestinal lipid metabolism is poorly described. The small intestine is constantly exposed to high amounts of dietary lipids, and it is under conditions of stress that the functions of miRNAs become especially pronounced. Approaches consisting in either a chronic exposure to cholesterol and triglyceride rich diets (for several days or weeks) or an acute lipid challenge were employed in the search for intestinal miRNAs with a potential role in lipid metabolism regulation. According to our results, changes in miRNA expression in response to fat ingestion are dependent on factors such as time upon exposure, gender and small intestine section. Classic and recent intestinal in vitro models (i.e. differentiated Caco-2 cells and murine organoids) partially mirror miRNA modulation in response to lipid challenges in vivo. Moreover, intestinal miRNAs might play a role in triglyceride absorption and produce changes in lipid accumulation in intestinal tissues as seen in a generated intestinal Dicer1-deletion murine model. Overall, despite some variability between the different experimental cohorts and in vitro models, results show that some miRNAs analysed here are modulated in response to dietary lipids, hence likely to participate in the regulation of lipid metabolism, and call for further research.

Body temperature-dependent microRNA expression analysis in rats: rno-miR-374-5p regulates apoptosis in skeletal muscle cells via Mex3B under hypothermia

Forensic diagnosis of fatal hypothermia is considered difficult because there are no specific findings. Accordingly, exploration of novel fatal hypothermia-specific findings is important. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of homeostasis in hypothermia and identify novel molecular markers to inform the diagnosis of fatal hypothermia, we focused on microRNA expression in skeletal muscle, which plays a role in cold-induced thermogenesis in mammals. We generated rat models of mild, moderate, and severe hypothermia, and performed body temperature-dependent microRNA expression analysis of the iliopsoas muscle using microarray and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results show that rno-miR-374-5p expression was significantly induced only by severe hypothermia. Luciferase reporter assay and qRT-PCR results indicated that Mex3B expression was regulated by rno-miR-374-5p and decreased with decreasing body temperature. Gene ontology analysis indicated the involvement of Mex3B in positive regulation of GTPase activity. siRNA analysis showed that Mex3B directly or indirectly regulated Kras expression in vitro, and significantly changed the expression of apoptosis-related genes and proteins. Collectively, these results indicate that rno-miR-374-5p was activated by a decrease in body temperature, whereby it contributed to cell survival by suppressing Mex3B and activating or inactivating Kras. Thus, rno-miR-374-5p is a potential supporting marker for the diagnosis of fatal hypothermia.

Epilepsy miRNA Profile Depends on the Age of Onset in Humans and Rats

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a severe neurological disorder accompanied by recurrent spontaneous seizures. Although the knowledge of TLE onset is still incomplete, TLE pathogenesis most likely involves the aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs play an essential role in organism homeostasis and are widely studied in TLE as potential therapeutics and biomarkers. However, many discrepancies in discovered miRNAs occur among TLE studies due to model-specific miRNA expression, different onset ages of epilepsy among patients, or technology-related bias. We employed a massive parallel sequencing approach to analyze brain tissues from 16 adult mesial TLE (mTLE)/hippocampal sclerosis (HS) patients, 8 controls and 20 rats with TLE-like syndrome, and 20 controls using the same workflow and categorized these subjects based on the age of epilepsy onset. All categories were compared to discover overlapping miRNAs with an aberrant expression, which could be involved in TLE. Our cross-comparative analyses showed distinct miRNA profiles across the age of epilepsy onset and found that the miRNA profile in rats with adult-onset TLE shows the closest resemblance to the profile in mTLE/HS patients. Additionally, this analysis revealed overlapping miRNAs between patients and the rat model, which should participate in epileptogenesis and ictogenesis. Among the overlapping miRNAs stand out miR-142-5p and miR-142-3p, which regulate immunomodulatory agents with pro-convulsive effects and suppress neuronal growth. Our cross-comparison study enhanced the insight into the effect of the age of epilepsy onset on miRNA expression and deepened the knowledge of epileptogenesis. We employed the same methodological workflow in both patients and the rat model, thus improving the reliability and accuracy of our results.

Immune Cell Therapies to Improve Regeneration and Revascularization of Non-Healing Wounds

With the increased prevalence of chronic diseases, non-healing wounds place a significant burden on the health system and the quality of life of affected patients. Non-healing wounds are full-thickness skin lesions that persist for months or years. While several factors contribute to their pathogenesis, all non-healing wounds consistently demonstrate inadequate vascularization, resulting in the poor supply of oxygen, nutrients, and growth factors at the level of the lesion. Most existing therapies rely on the use of dermal substitutes, which help the re-epithelialization of the lesion by mimicking a pro-regenerative extracellular matrix. However, in most patients, this approach is not efficient, as non-healing wounds principally affect individuals afflicted with vascular disorders, such as peripheral artery disease and/or diabetes. Over the last 25 years, innovative therapies have been proposed with the aim of fostering the regenerative potential of multiple immune cell types. This can be achieved by promoting cell mobilization into the circulation, their recruitment to the wound site, modulation of their local activity, or their direct injection into the wound. In this review, we summarize preclinical and clinical studies that have explored the potential of various populations of immune cells to promote skin regeneration in non-healing wounds and critically discuss the current limitations that prevent the adoption of these therapies in the clinics.

MicroRNA-129-2-3p directly targets Wip1 to suppress the proliferation and invasion of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

Accumulated studies showed that numerous microRNAs (miRNAs) were aberrantly expressed in human intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and contributed to the tumorigenic processes. However, whether miR-129-2-3p is implicated in the ICC initiation and progression is still limited. Here, the results revealed that miR-129-2-3p expression was notably decreased in ICC tissues and cell lines, and that a low miR-129-2-3p expression was obviously associated with distant metastasis and clinical stage. Exogenous miR-129-2-3p expression evidently repressed the proliferative and invasive abilities of ICC cells. Mechanistic studies indicated that Wild-type p53-induced phosphatase 1 (Wip1) was a direct target gene for miR-129-2-3p in ICC cells. Furthermore, silencing Wip1 expression mimicked the suppressive effects of miR-129-2-3p upregulation on ICC cells. Interestingly, reintroduction of Wip1 expression partially abolished the miR-129-2-3p -reduced cell proliferation and invasion in ICC. Moreover, ectopic miR-129-2-3p expression hindered the ICC tumor growth in vivo. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time to reveal that miR-129-2-3p plays a crucial role in tumor suppression in ICC pathogenesis through directly targeting Wip1. These results will aid in elucidating the roles of miR-129-2-3p in ICC, and suggest that this miRNA may provide a potential target for the treatment of ICC

MircoRNA-129-5p suppresses the development of glioma by targeting HOXC10

BACKGROUND

miR-129-5p has been reported to be abnormally expressed and plays an important role in the progression of various malignancies. However, its role in gliomas and its exact molecular mechanism need further research.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

RT-qPCR was performed to evaluate miR-129-5p and HOXC10 mRNA expression levels in tissues and cell lines. Cell proliferation was detected via Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) and clone formation assays. Luciferase assays were used to validate the binding of seeds between miR-129-5p and HOXC10. A tumor xenograft model was developed to study the effect of miR-129-5p on glioma growth in vivo.

RESULTS

miR-129-5p was expressed at low levels in glioma tissues and cell lines. miR-129-5p overexpression inhibited glioma proliferation, migration and invasion. miR-129-5p negatively and directly targeted HOXC10. At the same time, HOXC10 was upregulated in glioma cancer, and HOXC10 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion.

CONCLUSION

miR-129-5p inhibits glioma development by altering HOXC10 expression and may therefore serve as a new diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for glioma in the future.

Improved stability of KGF by conjugation with gold nanoparticles for diabetic wound therapy

Aim: Diabetic wound healing is seriously interrupted, and administration of KGF for wound treatment is restricted by its inherent instability. We aim to develop an ideal way toward KGF stabilization, thus improving diabetic wound healing. Materials & methods: We conjugated KGF with gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and determined the stability and binding affinity. Biological effects of conjugates (KGF-GNPs) were evaluated in vitro and in an animal model. Results: KGF-GNPs revealed high stability under hostile circumstances because of the preserved secondary structure and possessed elevated binding affinity to KGF receptor. Moreover, application of KGF-GNPs contributed to accelerated wound recovery in diabetic rats, including re-epithelialization and contraction. Conclusion: KGF-GNPs were promising for future clinical application for diabetic wound therapy.

The Healing Power of Neutrophils

Neutrophils promptly accumulate in large numbers at sites of tissue injury. Injuries to the skin or mucosae disrupt barriers against the external environment, and the bactericidal actions of neutrophils are important in preventing microbial invasion. Neutrophils have also been associated with exacerbated inflammation, for example in non-healing wounds or in conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, additional neutrophil functions important for angiogenesis and tissue restoration have been uncovered in models of sterile and ischemic injury, as well as in tumors. These functions are also relevant in healing skin and mucosal wounds, and can be impaired in conditions associated with non-healing wounds, such as diabetes. Here, we discuss our current understanding of neutrophil contributions to healing, and how the latter can be compromised in disease.