Role of mesenchymal stem cells in diabetic wound healing

The recognition of dysregulated immunity and abnormal healing processes in diabetes has driven a growth in research on novel therapeutics for the treatment of diabetic skin wounds. Two targets of interest include mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and microRNA (miRNA). MSCs are multipotent cells with tissue regeneration capabilities that influence wound healing through multiple pathways, including through correction of dysregulated miRNA expression in inflammatory conditions like diabetes. MiRNA are small molecules that regulate various cellular processes, including ones critical to wound healing. In this chapter, we will summarize how MSCs play a role in wound healing, how miRNA are dysregulated in diabetic wounds, and how MSCs correct miRNA dysregulation.