Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth. ex. Walp. leaves-derived biogenic nanohydrogel accelerates diabetic wound healing in rats over 21 days.

Abstract

This study focused on the potential of Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth. ex. Walp. leaves zinc oxide nanoparticles hydrogel (GSL ZnONPs HG) for diabetic wound healing. The major components identified through HPLC analysis in Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth. ex. Walp. leaves ethanolic extract (GSL) were apigenin-7-O-glucoside, kaempferol, and protocatechuic acid. These compounds exhibited anti-inflammatory properties. The hydrogel loaded with GSL ethanolic extract and Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth. ex. Walp. leaves ethanolic extract zinc oxide nanoparticles (GSL ZnONPs) displayed controlled release and favorable swelling behavior. GSL ZnONPs HG enhanced tissue regeneration, reduced apoptosis, and modulated inflammation in diabetic wounds as demonstrated by wound morphology and closure measurements, as well as histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations. It is important to highlight the dose-dependent behavior of GSL ZnONPs, demonstrating their effectiveness in promoting diabetic wound healing even at lower concentrations. This was supported by their response to various biomarkers through a significant reduction in vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and advanced glycation end products levels (AGEs), and a notable increase in interleukin-10 (IL-10) and platelet-derived growth factor concentrations (PDGF). Collectively, the study highlights the potential of GSL ZnONPs HG as a promising approach to enhance diabetic wound healing.