Wound healing is an essential biological process that comprises sequential steps aimed at restoring the architecture and function of damaged cells and tissues. This process begins with conserved damage signals, such as Ca²⁺, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and ATP, that diffuse through epithelial tissues and initiate immediate gene transcription-independent cellular effects, including cell shape changes, the formation of functional actomyosin structures and the recruitment of immune cells. These events integrate the ensuing transcription of specific wound response genes that further advance the wound healing response. The immediate importance of transcription-independent damage signals illustrates that healing a wound begins as soon as damage occurs.