Milk fat globule EGF factor 8 (MFG-E8) is a peripheral glycoprotein which acts as a bridging molecule between the macrophage and apoptotic cells thus executing a pivotal role in the scavenging of apoptotic cells from affected tissue. We have previously reported that apoptotic cell clearance activity or efferocytosis is compromised in diabetic wound macrophages. In this work we test the hypothesis that MFG-E8 helps resolve inflammation, supports angiogenesis and accelerates wound closure. MFG-E8−/− mice, displayed impaired efferocytosis associated with exaggerated inflammatory response, poor angiogenesis and wound closure. Wound macrophage-derived MFG-E8 was recognized as a critical driver of wound angiogenesis. Transplantation of MFG-E8−/− bone marrow to MFG-E8+/+ mice resulted in impaired wound closure and compromised wound vascularization. On the other hand, MFG-E8−/− mice that received wild-type bone marrow showed improved wound closure and improved wound vascularization. Hyperglycemia and exposure to advanced glycated end products inactivated MFG-E8 recognizing a key mechanism that complicates diabetic wound healing. Diabetic db/db mice suffered from impaired efferocytosis accompanied with persistent inflammation and slow wound closure. Topical rMFG-E8 induced resolution of wound inflammation, improvements in angiogenesis and acceleration of closure upholding the potential of MFG-E8 directed therapeutics in diabetic wound care.
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