Alpha-mangostin promotes diabetic wound healing: An in vitro study with mechanistic elucidation

Abstract Poor wound healing is a common manifestation of diabetes mellitus, culminating in chronic, non-healing ulcer. Alpha(α)-mangostin, one of the most active xanthones found in mangosteen pericarp, has been reported to promote wound healing. However, its effectiveness and mechanism in expediting diabetic wound healing is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of alpha-mangostin on wound cell migration and growth factor expressions in a diabetic wound healing model. Human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAEC) and human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells were used in this laboratory study. Alpha-mangostin of different concentrations and carboxymethyl cellulose (used as positive control) were introduced to the cell culture plates. Scratch assay was performed for each plate and the rate of cell migration was calculated. Growth factors released by the cells were measured using the ELISA method. Treatment with alpha-mangostin at 0.15 ug/ml concentration showed the fastest rate of endothelial and fibroblast cell migration compared to negative controls. Alpha-mangostin treatment increased PDGF, TGF-β, FGF, TIMP, and reduced MMP-9 levels compared to glucose controls. The findings indicate that in an in vitro diabetic wound healing model, alpha-mangostin stimulates endothelial and fibroblast cell migration, increased the release of growth factors, and lowered the MMP-9 secretion.