Blocking enzyme improves wound healing in elderly diabetics

Elderly and diabetic patients could benefit from blocking enzymes that prevent skin-thinning, which causes wounds to heal more slowly.

Researchers from the University of Birmingham blocked an enzyme called 11ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 gene (11ß-HSD1) in a test group of mice. They found that wounds healed 50% quicker and skin quality was better compared to a control group.

This research could have exciting implications for the treatment of diabetic and elderly patients suffering from ulcers, burns and wounds from surgical procedures, the researchers say.