Secretome as a Tool to Treat Neurological Conditions: Are We Ready?

Abstract

Due to their characteristics, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered a potential therapy for brain tissue injury or degeneration. Nevertheless, despite the promising results observed, there has been a growing interest in the use of cell-free therapies in regenerative medicine, such as the use of stem cell secretome. This review provides an in-depth compilation of data regarding the secretome composition, protocols used for its preparation, as well as existing information on the impact of secretome administration on various brain conditions, pointing out gaps and highlighting relevant findings. Moreover, due to the ability of MSCs to respond differently depending on their microenvironment, preconditioning of MSCs has been used to modulate their composition and, consequently, their therapeutic potential. The different strategies used to modulate the MSC secretome were also reviewed. Although secretome administration was effective in improving functional impairments, regeneration, neuroprotection, and reducing inflammation in brain tissue, a high variability in secretome preparation and administration was identified, compromising the transposition of preclinical data to clinical studies. Indeed, there are no reports of the use of secretome in clinical trials. Despite the existing limitations and lack of clinical data, secretome administration is a potential tool for the treatment of various diseases that impact the CNS.

Rhoa/ROCK, mTOR and Secretome-Based Treatments for Ischemic Stroke: New Perspectives

“…The MSC secretome comprises a wide range of molecules crucial for various biological processes [136], such as axonal growth [137], proliferation [138], apoptosis [139], and angiogenesis [140], as well as the release of genetic material like microRNAs (miRNAs) [141]. Stem cell secretome [142], along with small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from MSCs have emerged as promising therapeutic agents [143].…”

Senescence-Associated Alterations in Matrisome of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

“…It is widely believed that these factors contribute to the therapeutic potential of MSCs. The ECM can influence the functional state of cells and modulate paracrine activity, as evidenced by studies [4][5][6]. The biological role of the ECM determines the integration of cells into tissues, tissues into organs, and organs in the organism.…”