Framework Nucleic Acids-Based VEGF Signaling Activating System for Angiogenesis: A Dual Stimulation Strategy

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Angiogenesis is vital for tissue engineering, wound healing, and regenerative medicine.
• Nanomaterials can activate endogenous growth factor signaling for therapeutic benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct a functional nanomaterial complex simulating VEGF and stabilizing HIF for enhanced angiogenesis.
• To evaluate the efficacy of the developed complex in vitro and in vivo for wound healing.

Main Methods:

• DNA self-assembly to create tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs).
• Integration of Apt02 aptamer and DMOG small molecule using click chemistry and strand displacement.
• In vitro cell studies with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and in vivo studies in diabetic mice.

Main Results:

• The tFNAs-Apt02-DMOG complex (TACD) showed affinity for HUVECs.
• TACD promoted VEGF secretion, in vitro blood vessel formation, sprouting, and migration.
• TACD enhanced angiogenesis by upregulating VEGF/VEGFR and HIF pathways, accelerating wound healing in diabetic mice.

Conclusions:

• The novel strategy effectively simulates VEGF and stabilizes HIF, promoting blood vessel formation.
• The developed nanomaterial complex demonstrates significant potential for vascularization applications in regenerative medicine and wound healing.