Umbelliferone alleviates impaired wound healing and skin barrier dysfunction in high glucose-exposed dermal fibroblasts and diabetic skins

Skin wound healing is a complex process involving various cellular and molecular events. However, chronic wounds, particularly in individuals with diabetes, often experience delayed wound healing, potentially leading to diabetic skin complications. In this study, we examined the effects of umbelliferone on skin wound healing using dermal fibroblasts and skin tissues from a type 2 diabetic mouse model. Our results demonstrate that umbelliferone enhances several crucial aspects of wound healing. It increases the synthesis of key extracellular matrix components such as collagen I and fibronectin, as well as proteins involved in cell migration like EVL and Fascin-1. Additionally, umbelliferone boosts the secretion of angiogenesis factors VEGF and HIF-1α, enhances the expression of cell adhesion proteins including E-cadherin, ZO-1, and Occludin, and elevates levels of skin hydration-related proteins like HAS2 and AQP3. Notably, umbelliferone reduces the expression of HYAL, thereby potentially decreasing tissue permeability. As a result, it promotes extracellular matrix deposition, activates cell migration and proliferation, and stimulates pro-angiogenic factors while maintaining skin barrier functions. In summary, these findings underscore the therapeutic potential of umbelliferone in diabetic wound care, suggesting its promise as a treatment for diabetic skin complications. KEY MESSAGES: Umbelliferone suppressed the breakdown of extracellular matrix components in the skin dermis while promoting their synthesis. Umbelliferone augmented the migratory and proliferative capacities of fibroblasts. Umbelliferone activated the release of angiogenic factors in diabetic wounds, leading to accelerated wound healing. Umbelliferone bolstered intercellular adhesion and reinforced the skin barrier by preventing moisture loss and preserving skin hydration.