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Hyperglycemia-Reduced Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB Expression Impairs Corneal Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice

Yangyang Zhang1,2, Rui Wang1,2,3, Ya Li2

  • 1Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.

Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|August 26, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Diabetic conditions impair corneal healing and nerve repair by reducing platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). Supplementing PDGF-BB promotes healing via ERK1/2 and AKT pathways, offering a potential therapy for diabetic eye disease.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Diabetology
  • Regenerative Medicine

Background:

  • Diabetic complications often involve impaired wound healing and nerve regeneration.
  • Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) plays a crucial role in tissue repair.
  • The specific mechanisms of PDGF-BB in diabetic corneal healing are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of PDGF-BB in diabetic corneal epithelial injury repair and nerve regeneration.
  • To elucidate the primary mechanisms by which PDGF-BB influences these processes.

Main Methods:

  • Type 1 diabetes was induced in mice; platelet function was modulated using specific antibodies.
  • PDGF-BB levels were quantified in human and murine samples.
  • Corneal epithelial wounds in diabetic mice were treated with PDGF-BB eye drops, alone or with pathway inhibitors.
  • In vitro studies utilized human corneal limbal epithelial stem cells (HLECs).

Main Results:

  • Diabetic individuals showed reduced platelet counts and PDGF-BB expression.
  • Platelet depletion and hyperglycemia impaired corneal repair and nerve regeneration, linked to lower PDGF-BB.
  • PDGF-BB administration enhanced HLEC migration and proliferation.
  • PDGF-BB promoted corneal healing and nerve regeneration in diabetic mice via ERK1/2 and AKT pathways.

Conclusions:

  • Hyperglycemia suppresses PDGF-BB, hindering corneal healing and nerve regeneration by inhibiting ERK1/2 and AKT signaling.
  • PDGF-BB shows potential as a therapeutic agent for diabetic keratopathy.

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