Research on the Role of Autophagy in Vascular Endothelial Cells in the Healing of Chronic Refractory Wounds
Summary: January 13, 2026 review explores autophagy in vascular endothelial cells (VECs) during chronic refractory wound healing, especially diabetic wounds. Autophagy (mainly macroautophagy) activated by ischemia/hypoxia/inflammation/infection maintains homeostasis, clears damage, supports angiogenesis via VEGF, reduces ROS/apoptosis/inflammation. Dysregulation (excessive or inhibited) delays healing in diabetes. Evidence from in vitro/in vivo models; potential therapies target pathways (e.g., PI3K/Akt/mTOR) or TCM ointments (MEBO, comfrey) to regulate autophagy for better vascular regeneration and healing.
Key Highlights:
- Mechanisms: LC3-II/Beclin-1 upregulation; pathways PI3K/Akt, PINK/Parkin, MAPK/ERK.
- Benefits: Promotes VEGF, angiogenesis; anti-inflammatory (↓TNF-α/IL-6); anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2/Caspase-8).
- Diabetes context: Hyperglycemia impairs VECs; autophagy mitigates ROS, enhances paracrine effects.
- Therapeutics: Modulate for VEGF secretion, inflammation control; TCM plasters promising but need precision.
Keywords: autophagy, vascular endothelial cells, diabetic wound healing, angiogenesis