Research on the Role of Autophagy in Vascular Endothelial Cells in the Healing of Chronic Refractory Wounds

Chronic refractory wounds exhibit a complex etiology characterized by prolonged healing and pathological chronic inflammation, which pose significant challenges to wound recovery and may increase the risk of cancer over time. In recent years, the autophagy mechanism has emerged as a focal point of research. This process is regulated by nutritional status, growth factors, and cellular stress. Autophagy facilitates the removal of damaged organelles and misfolded proteins, recycles nutrients, contributes to immune defense, and aids in the elimination of pathogens. Endothelial autophagy is particularly crucial in the healing of chronic refractory wounds. It may be activated under conditions of ischemia, hypoxia, inflammation, and infection, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation and tissue repair while assisting cells in maintaining homeostasis and managing various stressors. Consequently, investigating the autophagic mechanisms in vascular endothelial cells during chronic refractory wound healing is essential for the development of novel wound treatment strategies.