Effects of Physalis angulata L. Fruit Extract on Endothelial Cell Migration and VEGF Concentration during Wound Healing under Hyperglycemic Conditions: An in vitro Study

Diabetes mellitus cases and complications, including difficult-to-heal wounds, are increasing worldwide. Diabetic wounds frequently exhibit impaired angiogenesis due to hyperglycemia, which disrupts many factors that promote angiogenesis, including the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Physalis angulata L, an herb in the Solanaceae family, is used as a herbal medicine for many ailments, such as treating wounds. The fruit of P. angulata is rich in lupeol, a compound that can enhance wound healing by upregulating the expression of certain growth factors. This study aimed to determine the effect of P. angulata fruit extract on endothelial cell migration and VEGF concentration in wound healing in hyperglycemic endothelial cell cultures. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to high glucose (22 mM/dL) for 6 and 24 h with or without 0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.1% concentrations of P. angulata fruit extract. Cell migration was examined in HUVECs by scratching and measuring the distance. VEGF concentration was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods. P. angulata fruit extract at a concentration of 0.025% for 24 h significantly stimulated cell migration and VEGF concentration in HUVECs exposed to hyperglycemia. P. angulata fruit extract is a promising herb for treating diabetic wounds.