Vildagliptin promotes diabetic foot ulcer healing through autophagy modulation

The study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of Vildagliptin on the healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). The research compared patients who received 12 weeks of Vildagliptin treatment to those who did not. Various molecular markers associated with wound healing were measured. Wound fluid samples were collected from DFUs using a filter paper absorption technique, and total RNA was extracted for quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). The results showed that the autophagy marker NUP62 was significantly downregulated in the Vildagliptin group at week 12 compared to baseline (median expression 0.57 vs. 1.28; P = 0.0234). No significant change was observed in the placebo group (median expression 1.61 vs. 1.48; P = 0.9102). Both groups showed substantial downregulation of RIPK3, a necroptosis marker, at week 12 compared to their respective baselines. In addition to its effects on blood sugar levels, Vildagliptin may promote DFU healing by reducing autophagy in patients with diabetes.