Topical Gynura procumbens as a Novel Therapeutic Improves Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice

Abstract

Nonhealing wounds are major socioeconomic challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. Therefore, there is a substantially unmet need to develop new drugs for wound healing. <i>Gynura procumbens</i>, a herb found in Southeast Asia, may be an effective therapeutic for nonhealing diabetic wounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of <i>G. procumbens</i> on wound healing in the diabetic milieu. <i>G. procumbens</i> extract was obtained using 95% ethanol and its components were determined by thin layer chromatography. Diabetes was induced in mice using streptozotocin. We found that <i>G. procumbens</i> extract contained stigmasterol, kaempferol and quercetin compounds. Topical application of <i>G. procumbens</i> on the wounded skin of diabetic mice accelerated wound healing and induced the expression of angiogenin, epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor. Furthermore, <i>G. procumbens</i> promoted in vitro wound healing and enhanced the migration and/or proliferation of human endothelial cells, fibroblasts, keratinocytes and mast cells cultured in diabetic conditions. Finally, <i>G. procumbens</i> promoted vascular formation in the diabetic mice. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluates in vivo wound healing activities of <i>G. procumbens</i> and activation of cells involved in wound healing process in diabetic conditions. The findings that <i>G. procumbens</i> accelerates wound healing and activates cells involved in the wound healing process suggest that <i>G. procumbens</i> might be an effective alternative therapeutic option for nonhealing diabetic wounds.