Biomarkers in Wound Healing
Summary: This chapter synthesizes biomarkers across wound healing phases: hemostasis (PDGF, thrombin), inflammation (IL-1β, TNF-α, MMPs), proliferation (VEGF, EGF, TGF-β), remodeling (TIMPs, collagen I). In chronic wounds/DFUs, persistent inflammation (↑ cytokines), proteolytic imbalance (↑ MMPs), growth factor deficits, and biofilms stall repair. Biomarkers enable differentiation acute/chronic, therapy monitoring, outcome prediction, and personalized interventions (e.g., protease modulators for high MMPs). Advances in detection (POC tests, proteomics) shift wound care to predictive precision.
Key Highlights:
- Phases: Hemostasis (PDGF), inflammation (IL-6/TNF-α/CRP), proliferation (VEGF/PDGF), remodeling (TIMPs/collagen I).
- Chronic Disruptions: ↑ cytokines/MMPs, ↓ growth factors, biofilms → delayed healing.
- Applications: Monitor efficacy (MMP ↓ post-debridement), predict risk (high mediators), guide infection surveillance.
- Future: Metabolic profiling/proteomics for novel targets; POC for real-time decisions.
- Authors: Tintswalo N. Mgwenya, Phumlane S. Mdluli
Keywords: wound biomarkers, chronic wounds, DFU, inflammation, precision, Tintswalo N Mgwenya, Phumlane S Mdluli