Objective:

To explore the functions and molecular interactions of YWHAZ, a dysregulated RNA-binding protein in diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) tissues, and its potential impact on healing.

Key Findings:

• YWHAZ was significantly upregulated in DFU tissues, confirmed through multiple assays.
• YWHAZ knockdown promoted cell proliferation and migration while suppressing apoptosis, indicating its role in cell survival.
• 1,072 DEGs were identified in Si_YWHAZ cells, with upregulated genes linked to cell proliferation and downregulated genes associated with cell adhesion, highlighting the functional impact of YWHAZ.
• YWHAZ binds to numerous mRNAs, particularly those downregulated in DFU, including SREBF1, which correlates with type 2 diabetes risk, suggesting a regulatory network.
• KEGG pathway analysis indicated SREBF1's involvement in insulin resistance and signaling pathways, emphasizing its relevance in diabetes.

Interpretation:

The study suggests that YWHAZ plays a regulatory role in cell growth and apoptosis in DFUs, potentially influencing the healing process through its interactions with specific mRNAs, which may serve as therapeutic targets.

Limitations:

• The study primarily focuses on in vitro models, which may not fully replicate in vivo conditions, necessitating further validation.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the complete regulatory mechanisms of YWHAZ in DFUs, including in vivo studies.

Conclusion:

YWHAZ's regulatory functions in DFUs provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving healing processes in diabetic patients, warranting further investigation.