Pro-angiogenic Properties of Terbium Hydroxide Nanorods: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Applications in Wound Healing

The process of angiogenesis, involving generation of new blood vessels from the existing ones, is vital for the supply of oxygen and nutrients to various tissues of body system. Angiogenesis is directly associated with several physiological and pathological processes. It is well-established that impairment in angiogenesis process results in various fatal conditions. Recently, few research groups including ours demonstrated therapeutic angiogenesis through nanomedicine approach using metal oxide/hydroxide nanoparticles. However, there is still a thorough necessity for the development of novel, eco-friendly, pro-angiogenic nanomaterials. Hence, in the present study we demonstrate the in vitro and in vivo pro-angiogenic properties of terbium hydroxide nanorods (THNRs) synthesized using an advanced microwave irradiation method, along with the detailed molecular signaling cascade underlying THNRs induced angiogenesis. The in vivo wound healing and nonimmunogenicity of the THNRs have been validated in the mouse models. We thus strongly believe that the present study establishing the pro-angiogenic properties of THNRs will aid in the development of alternative treatment strategies for wound healing along with cardiovascular and ischemic diseases, where angiogenesis is the chief target.