Controlling infection of diabetic foot lesions using amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells.

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K18406
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 56070:Plastic and reconstructive surgery-related
• Research Institution: Hokkaido University
• Principal Investigator: Hojo Masahiro 北海道大学, 大学病院, 医員 (80866666)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: 間葉系幹細胞 / 糖尿病 / 感染制御 / 抗菌作用 / 創傷治癒

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The escalating number of global diabetes cases emphasizes the need to address complications such as diabetic foot ulcers. These ulcers frequently become infected, leading to serious or even fatal outcomes. A promising therapeutic option is the use of amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs), known for their infection-controlling, nerve regeneration-promoting, and anti-inflammatory properties. In our study, we found that AMSC conditioned medium could inhibit bacterial growth, possibly due to the presence of the antimicrobial peptide LL-37. When a gel made from AMSC conditioned medium was applied to infected wounds in diabetic mice, we observed a significant decrease in bacterial counts and an accelerated wound healing process. Our findings suggest that AMSCs could represent a promising therapeutic option for managing diabetic foot ulcers.

Free Research Field

形成外科学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

糖尿病患者数の増加に伴い、足病変合併症は深刻な医療課題となっており、本研究では、羊膜由来間葉系幹細胞（AMSC）の感染制御、抗炎症作用、創傷治癒促進作用を活かした治療法の可能性が示された。この成果は、感染症性糖尿病潰瘍の治療に新たな手法を提供することが期待される。また、LL-37は既存の抗菌薬とは違う作用機序のため、近年世界中で問題になっている薬剤耐性菌にも効果が期待できる。この治療法の実用化によって、患者の生命予後と生活の質の向上、医療費の削減にもつながるため、社会的な意義も大きいと言える。