Diabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase iv and Wound Healing: from Basic Science to Therapeutic Possibilities

Hyperglycemia, often accompanied with various complications such as chronic ulcers, represents a major socio-economic health problem. Dipeptidyl peptidase IV or CD26 molecule (DPP IV/CD26), is an omnipresent transmembrane protein with significant involvements in different physiological and pathological processes. It has been recognized as a therapeutic option in the treatment of hyperglycemia, especially in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes, given its capability to regulate the biological activity of incretins, which are major regulators of glucose homeostasis. Furthermore, DPP IV/CD26 has been indicated to be involved in the regulation of inflammatory processes as well as cell proliferation and angiogenesis. New scientific evidence shows that inhibition of DPP IV/CD26 leads to a more efficacious healing of chronic ulcers in diabetic patients as well as in mice models of wounded tissue restoration. However, the role of DPP IV/CD26 in the process of wound healing in hyperglycemia is not entirely known. Our aim was to summarize most important findings on the involvement of DPP IV/CD26 in the regulation of glycemia as well as tissue regeneration and reparation. This work reviews basic biochemical