In diabetic wounds, the levels of growth factors (GFs), such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), are generally reduced, leading to impaired wound healing. The chronic hyperglycemic environment in diabetes impairs cellular responses, including the production, release, and activity of growth factors, which are crucial for tissue repair and regeneration.

Can Growth Factors Be Imbalanced in Diabetic Wounds?

While the reduction in growth factor levels is commonly observed, imbalances, including both decreased and increased levels, can theoretically occur depending on the stage of the wound and the body’s response to the injury. However, sustained elevations in growth factor levels are unlikely because diabetes disrupts the normal regulation of growth factors, and any temporary spike in GF levels would still likely be inadequate for effective wound healing.

Diabetic wounds typically exhibit:

Some studies suggest that growth factor therapy (e.g., recombinant PDGF) can help boost wound healing in diabetic patients by compensating for the deficiency, but this requires controlled delivery to be effective (Sen et al., 2009).

References:

• Falanga, V. (2005). Wound healing and its impairment in the diabetic foot. The Lancet, 366(9498), 1736-1743.
• Sen, C. K., et al. (2009). Human skin wounds: A major and snowballing threat to public health and the economy. Wound Repair and Regeneration, 17(6), 763-771.

Akshunna Keerti’s explanation is a great starting point for understanding the overall process of diabetic wound healing. While there are many more complex details that can be explored, Akshunna provides a solid general overview that helps set the foundation. Once you understand this big picture, you can dig deeper into the finer points. If you have any specific questions about diabetic wound healing, feel free to ask!