Research Projects

Diabetes is a serious health issue that leads to diabetic foot ulcers, burn injuries, and wounds, which can lead to amputations and mortality. To address these issues, there is a need for efficient and cost-effective wound healing agents. Nanomaterials, such as Titanium dioxide nanotubes (TNT) and conjugated to Quercetin, have shown promising results in treating DFU, burns, and wounds, and promoting skin regeneration. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of TiO2 and Quercetin are not known. This grant application aims to define the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which TNT-Qu and skin γδ T cells enhance wound healing and sustain skin function. The hypothesis is that TNT-Qu promotes DETC activation and proliferation, which in turn enhances keratinocyte proliferation and skin regeneration. To test this hypothesis and determine the underlying molecular mechanism, the researchers will analyze the efficacy of TNT, Quercetin, and TNT-Qu in wound healing of both normal and diabetic induced mice. They will also determine the role of DETC in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in wound repair mechanisms. The study will use the Excision wound model, immunohistochemistry, FACs, and cytokines, chemokines, and IGF-1/KGF1 growth factors to investigate the mechanism of action of TNT, Quercetin, and DETCs in wound healing. The results will provide a solid basis for designing rational therapeutic strategies for skin regeneration of Diabetic Foot Ulcers.