Dedifferentiated fat cells-derived exosomes (DFATs-Exos) loaded in GelMA accelerated diabetic wound healing through Wnt/β-catenin pathway

Abstract

Background

Diabetic foot ulcers pose significant challenges for clinicians worldwide. Cell-free exosome therapy holds great potential for wound healing. Dedifferentiated fat cells (DFATs) have been used in tissue engineering and regeneration, but there are no reports on the use of DFATs-derived exosomes in diabetic wound repair.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate whether DFATs-Exos accelerated diabetic wound healing and explore its potential mechanism.

Methods

In vitro, DFATs-Exos were harvested from adipose tissue and used to treat endothelial cells (ECs) and fibroblasts. XAV939 was used as a Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor. The biocompatibility of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel was assessed. In vivo, DFAT-derived exosomes were encapsulated in 10% GelMA hydrogel and applied to a diabetic wound model. Histological analysis and wound closure rates were evaluated.

Results

DFATs-Exos promoted angiogenesis in ECs and significantly alleviated the high glucose-induced inhibition of cell proliferation and migration by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In vivo, compared to DFAT-Exos or GelMA alone, the DFAT-Exos/GelMA combination accelerated wound closure and enhanced collagen maturity.

Conclusion

The DFAT-Exos/GelMA hydrogel significantly promoted wound healing in a diabetic animal model through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-025-04205-9.