Stem cell-derived exosomes: a novel vector for tissue repair and diabetic therapy

Abstract

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted from a majority of cell types. Exosomes play a role in healthy and pathogenic intercellular interactions via the transfer of proteins, lipids and RNA. The contents and effects of exosomes vary depending on the properties of the originating cell. Exosomes secreted from some cell types, including stem cells, carry biological factors implicated in the protection, regeneration and angiogenesis of damaged tissues. Due to these properties, exosomes have attracted attention as a novel vector for regenerative therapies. Exosomes as a therapeutic tool could have applications for the treatment of many disorders characterized by chronic tissue damage. Exosomes derived from stem cells could be applied to repair or prevent damage from the complications of diabetes mellitus. The immunomodulatory and reparative properties of stem cell-derived exosomes could protect or even restore an early-stage type 1 diabetic patient's original islets from autoimmune destruction. Exosomes could also possibly suppress graft rejection of pancreatic islet transplants. Therefore, it is our recommendation that the treatment of diabetes mellitus using exosome-based therapies be further explored. Development of novel therapies using exosomes is slowed by a limited understanding of their mechanisms. This hurdle must be overcome to pave the way for clinical trials and ultimately the adaptation of exosomes as a therapeutic vector.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Aging: Insights from the Analysis of Extracellular Vesicles

“…Furthermore, EVs can regulate gene expression by modulating the activity of transcription factors, signaling proteins and enzymes [20]. Finally, stem cells can generate EVs to favor angiogenesis and organ regeneration [45].…”

Exosomes Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells-Endothelia Cells Promotes Postnatal Angiogenesis in Mice Bearing Ischemic Limbs

“…miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs which are highly expressed in endothelial cells, and recent data suggest that they regulate aspects of vascular development and angiogenesis11, 12, 13. MiRNAs are secreted actively via exosomes that protect them from degradation by RNases, indicating that miRNAs may function outside the cell in which they were produced as a paracrine factor14, 15, 16. In the context of PAD, miRNA-199b is an important modulator in a myriad of vascular biology events17.…”

Extracellular Vesicles in Glioma: From Diagnosis to Therapy

“…Exosomes have been reported to function in intercellular signaling by transporting their molecular cargo between different cells, sometimes over large distances in the body . Depending on their origin, exosomes can produce a variety of effects such as immune regulation, promote tissue regeneration, transmission of high‐threat pathological agents such as HIV and prions, and even promote tumorigenesis.…”