Why in news?
Researchers from Nagaland University have discovered that sinapic acid, a plant-derived phenolic compound, can accelerate wound healing in diabetic conditions when taken orally. The study, conducted in collaboration with another Indian university, reported that sinapic acid boosted tissue repair and reduced oxidative stress in diabetic rats.
Background
Sinapic acid is one of the most common hydroxycinnamic acids found in nature. It occurs widely in cereal grains, fruits, vegetables and spices and is known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. As a potent polyphenol, it can neutralise harmful free radicals and has been studied for supporting bone health, anxiety relief and other benefits. Food sources rich in sinapic acid include lemons, mangoes, berries, onions, garlic, rye and various herbs.
Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2, often leads to slow-healing wounds because elevated blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves, reduces immune responses and promotes inflammation. Chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers can lead to serious complications, including infections and amputations. New therapies that are safe, affordable and effective are therefore urgently needed.
Highlights of the study
- Researchers induced diabetes in laboratory rats by feeding a high-fat diet followed by streptozotocin injection. Wounds were created on the animals and treated with oral sinapic acid at 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg doses.
- The compound activated the SIRT1 pathway, which regulates inflammation, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels) and tissue repair. Rats receiving sinapic acid showed improved wound closure, better re-epithelialisation and higher levels of antioxidant enzymes compared with untreated diabetic rats.
- Surprisingly, the lower dose (20 mg/kg) was more effective than the higher dose. The researchers suggest that high concentrations may saturate cellular pathways or trigger feedback inhibition.
- This is the first published study showing that sinapic acid can accelerate wound healing when taken orally, rather than being applied topically, in a diabetic model.
Implications
The findings open the possibility of using sinapic acid supplements as an adjunct therapy for diabetic wounds. Being a naturally occurring molecule found in foods, it may have fewer side effects compared with synthetic drugs. However, before recommending it for human use, researchers must conduct toxicology studies and clinical trials to determine safe dosages, long-term effects and interactions with other medications.
Conclusion
Sinapic acid's ability to speed up healing in diabetic animals highlights the therapeutic potential hidden within common plant compounds. If future studies confirm its efficacy and safety in humans, it could become a cost-effective treatment for millions of diabetics suffering from chronic wounds. In the meantime, consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and spices that naturally contain sinapic acid may support overall health.
Source: The Economic Times . Save Our Bones - Sinapic acid overview