Peptide RL-QN15 regulates epidermal stem cell function to accelerate
wound healing via the FZD8/β-catenin axis
Abstract
Peptide RL-QN15 derived from skin secretions of Rana limnocharis has a
pronounced pro-healing effect on acute and chronic wounds, but its
precise mechanism is remains to be elucidated. Epidermal stem cells are
of utmost importance in wound healing and thus constitute a primary
focus of wound repair research. Here, we explored the mechanism of
RL-QN15 promoting wound healing by regulating epidermal stem cells. Our
results showed that RL-QN15 activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling
pathway by binding to the FZD8. This interaction resulted in the
up-regulation of target genes MYC and CCND1, thereby facilitating the
proliferation of epidermal stem cells. MMP3 can degrade E-cadherin and
activate Wnt/β-catenin pathway further. This enhanced pathway activity
induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and N-cadherin expression,
further encouraging cell proliferation and migration. RL-QN15 can also
effect the stemness of epidermal stem cells. In summary, as an excellent
candidate for novel pro-healing agent, RL-QN15 can promote the
activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway through binding with membrane
receptor FZD8, thus regulating epidermal stem cell functions and
promoting wound healing. This study elucidated a novel mechanism by
which amphibian-derived peptides promote skin wound healing, focusing on
the regulatory role of epidermal stem cells and providing a new target
for skin regeneration research.