We optimized the RL-QN15 peptide to obtain the cyclic heptapeptide (CyRL-QN15) with excellent therapeutic potency against skin wounds. Then, a multifunctional HPDAlCyRL-QN15/ZA hydrogel was prepared and characterized, which significantly enhanced the pro-healing potency of CyRL-QN15. This non-toxic hydrogel accelerated the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of skin cells, regulated the secretion of cytokines, directly scavenged free radicals, and decreased reactive oxygen species. Moreover, the HPDAlCyRL-QN15/ZA hydrogel accelerated the healing of skin wounds in type 2 diabetic mice and diabetic patient skin cultured ex vivo by promoting the polarization of macrophages to reduce inflammation, re-epithelialization, deposition of collagen, and angiogenesis.
- Zhe Fu
- Huiling Sun
- Xinwang Yang