Examination of epigenetic inhibitor zebularine in treatment of skin wounds in healthy and diabetic mice

The study investigated the effects of the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor zebularine on skin wound healing in both healthy and diabetic mice. Results showed that zebularine's impact on wound closure varied based on factors such as strain, age, dose, and delivery method. Topical application of zebularine moderately promoted wound closure in healthy mice but significantly delayed it in diabetic mice, aligning with reduced viability of keratinocytes from diabetic patients. Histological analysis indicated improved skin architecture in zebularine-treated mice, linked to the activation of the Wnt5a gene, which is involved in hair follicle development and regenerative skin healing. Although zebularine did not significantly accelerate wound healing, it and other epigenetic inhibitors were suggested for further research as potential treatments to enhance the quality of restored skin.