Lemon-derived nanoparticle-functionalized hydrogels regulate macrophage reprogramming to promote diabetic wound...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Diabetic skin injury (DSI) treatment requires immune inflammation regulation and skin regeneration.
• Existing polypeptide dressings show limited efficacy for chronic wounds.
• Plant-derived exosome treatments offer promise but face development challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of lemon (Citrus limon) exosomes for diabetic wound healing.
• To develop a hydrogel-based delivery system for sustained exosome release.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of a GelMA-DAS-Lemon Exosomes hydrogel patch for DSI.

Main Methods:

• Extraction and verification of biological efficacy of lemon-derived exosomes.
• Loading lemon exosomes into a Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA) and Dialdehyde Starch (DAS) hydrogel.
• Assessment of the hydrogel patch's properties for sustained release and skin adherence.
• Evaluation of the therapeutic effects on macrophage polarization, cell proliferation, and migration in diabetic wound models.

Main Results:

• Lemon exosomes modulated macrophage polarization and promoted vascular endothelial cell and fibroblast proliferation and migration.
• The GelMA-DAS hydrogel facilitated sustained and slow release of lemon exosomes.
• The GelMA/DAS/Exo hydrogel patch demonstrated excellent performance in promoting diabetic wound healing.

Conclusions:

• Lemon exosomes possess significant therapeutic potential for diabetic skin injury.
• The GelMA-DAS hydrogel serves as an effective delivery system for sustained exosome release.
• The GelMA-DAS-Lemon Exosomes hydrogel patch is a promising candidate for clinical application in diabetic wound repair.