Hydrogel Based on Adipose Tissue-Derived Extracellular Matrix Encapsulated with Microspheres Containing Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Accelerate Diabetic Wound Healing in a Rat Model

Introduction: Wounds in diabetic patients rank among the most frequent and costly complications. Consequently, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate effective methods for accelerating the wound healing process. Biological hydrogels are frequently used for wound healing due to their advantageous properties compared to alternative materials. In this research, we evaluated the impact of a bioactive and biodegradable hydrogel derived from adipose tissue extracellular matrix (HAd) loaded with microspheres containing epidermal growth factor (EGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on enhancing wound healing in diabetic rats. Material and methods: Forty-five diabetic rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 15): non-treated, HAd, and HAd encapsulated in microspheres with EGF and VEGF (HAdM). Wound evaluations were performed on days 7, 14, and 21. Results: The findings showed notable enhancements in the rate of wound closure, counts of fibroblasts and blood vessels, collagen density, levels of antioxidative factors (GSH, SOD, and CAT), wound strength, and concentrations of bFGF and TGF-β cytokines in the treatment groups versus the non-treated group, particularly emphasizing the most significant effects in the HAdM group. Moreover, the HAdM group indicated a more significant decrease in neutrophil counts, oxidative stress markers (MDA), and lower concentrations of TNF-α and IL-1β cytokines compared to the other groups. Conclusions: In summary, the HAd encapsulated with microspheres containing EGF and VEGF showed a more significant effect in promoting the healing of diabetic wounds.