Nagaland University Researchers Find Plant Compound to Treat Diabetic Wound Foot Ulcers
Summary: Researchers at Nagaland University have identified sinapic acid, a naturally occurring antioxidant from edible plants, as a powerful therapeutic for accelerating wound healing in diabetic patients, particularly foot ulcers. Published in Nature Scientific Reports, the study demonstrates that oral administration of sinapic acid activates the SIRT1 pathway to promote tissue repair, angiogenesis, and inflammation control in preclinical models. Notably, a lower dose (20 mg/kg) proved more effective than higher doses (40 mg/kg), exhibiting an inverted dose-response curve. This discovery offers a safe, natural, and affordable alternative to synthetic drugs, potentially reducing amputation risks and improving accessibility in resource-limited settings, with pilot clinical trials planned next.
Key Highlights:
- Sinapic acid targets diabetic foot ulcers by addressing neuropathy, poor circulation, infections, and oxidative stress through SIRT1 activation.
- Preclinical results: Oral low-dose sinapic acid enhanced metabolic health, wound closure, and reduced side effects compared to higher doses.
- Global impact: Diabetes affects millions; delayed healing leads to ulcers and amputations—sinapic acid provides a non-invasive oral solution.
- Lead researcher: Prof. Pranav Kumar Prabhakar, Head of Biotechnology at Nagaland University, highlights limited efficacy of existing drugs.
- Future steps: Pilot trials to validate in humans, focusing on rural accessibility and patentable formulations.
Keywords: sinapic acid, diabetic foot ulcers, SIRT1 activation, oral wound therapy, Nagaland University