New Molecule Shows Promise in accelerating Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice
Researchers at NYU Langone health and SUNY Albany have identified a novel molecule, RAGE406R, that significantly accelerates wound healing in obese mice with Type 2 diabetes. Teh findings, published recently, suggest a potential new therapeutic avenue for managing chronic complications associated with diabetes.
The research centers around RAGE (Receptor for Advanced Glycation End products), a protein that binds to AGEs - molecules formed when sugars attach to proteins or fats. AGE accumulation is heightened in individuals with diabetes and obesity, and increases with age. the team discovered that RAGE406R specifically interferes with the interaction between RAGE and DIAPH1, a protein crucial for building the cell’s internal structure via actin filaments. This RAGE-DIAPH1 connection exacerbates diabetic complications.
Previous attempts to block this pathway with a molecule called RAGE229 were halted due to potential safety concerns regarding DNA alteration. RAGE406R overcomes this hurdle by removing the problematic structural element while retaining its ability to disrupt the RAGE-DIAPH1 interaction.
In experiments using a mouse model of chronic diabetic wound healing, topical application of RAGE406R demonstrably sped up wound closure in both male and female mice. This betterment is linked to the molecule’s impact on the immune system.
Diabetes frequently enough triggers misplaced or prolonged inflammation, hindering the healing process. RAGE406R effectively reduced levels of CCL2, a key inflammatory signaling molecule, calming inflammation within macrophages (immune cells). This reduction in inflammation facilitated tissue remodeling, a vital step in wound repair.
“Our findings point to a promising new pathway for treating diabetes in the future,” stated Dr. Alexander Shekhtman of SUNY Albany. The researchers believe this work will not only pave the way for new therapies for both Type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but also enable the growth of biomarkers to monitor treatment effectiveness in living subjects.
The study involved a collaborative effort from researchers at NYU Langone Health and SUNY Albany, with funding from several U.S. Public Health Service grants and support from the NYU Diabetes research Program. Researchers have filed patent applications related to this discovery, and appropriate conflict of interest management protocols are in place.
