Preclinical Evaluation of Fisetin in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcer in Wistar Rats.

Aims: Preclinical Evaluation of Fisetin in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcer in Wistar Rats.

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a complication of diabetes mellitus, often leading to non-traumatic amputations and significantly impacting patient morbidity. Globally, the prevalence of DFU ranges from 9.1 to 26.1 million annually. A 2022 meta-analysis revealed that 6.3% of diabetic adults (33 million) are affected by DFUs. The current treatments primarily focus on topical treatments, neglecting the underlying metabolic conditions.

Objective: To investigate the wound healing efficacy of the phytoconstituent fisetin, administered orally, in managing DFU in diabetic neuropathic Wistar rats.

Method: This study investigates the therapeutic potential of a phytoconstituent fisetin, in the management of wound healing in STZ-NAD induced diabetic animal model with surgically induced wounds after indication of neuropathy. Fisetin was administered orally at doses of 5, 10, and 15 mg/kg for 30 days following the induction of foot ulcers, Various parameters were measured, including blood glucose levels, HbA1c, lipid profile, pro-inflammatory cytokines, antioxidant activity, MDA, and histopathological analysis of wound healing.

Result: Fisetin, particularly at 15 mg/kg, significantly modulates blood glucose level, HbA1c, lipid profile, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, further enhancing antioxidant activity, while reducing MDA, indicating a reduction in oxidative stress. Histopathological analysis demonstrated enhanced wound healing by increased fibroblast proliferation and collagen formation, as well as restoration of the epithelial layer. Fisetin also exhibited potential in enhancing re-epithelization, enhancing pro-angiogenic markers, diminishing inflammation, and reducing wound size.

Conclusion: Fisetin demonstrates promising potential in managing DFU by modulating metabolic conditions, reducing blood glucose, oxidative stress, and inflammation, and promoting wound healing. Future studies should focus on unraveling the detailed molecular pathways involved in fisetin's action, along with clinical trials to validate its efficacy in DFU patients.