Review of the Isolation, Characterization, Biological Function, and Multifarious Therapeutic Approaches of Exosomes

Application of extracellular vesicles in diabetic osteoporosis

As the population ages, the occurrence of osteoporosis is becoming more common. Diabetes mellitus is one of the factors in the development of osteoporosis. Compared with the general population, the incidence of osteoporosis is significantly higher in diabetic patients. Diabetic osteoporosis (DOP) is a metabolic bone disease characterized by abnormal bone tissue structure due to hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, reduced bone strength and increased risk of fractures. This is a complex mechanism that occurs at the cellular level due to factors such as blood vessels, inflammation, and hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Although the application of some drugs in clinical practice can reduce the occurrence of DOP, the incidence of fractures caused by DOP is still very high. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a new communication mode between cells, which can transfer miRNAs and proteins from mother cells to target cells through membrane fusion, thereby regulating the function of target cells. In recent years, the role of EVs in the pathogenesis of DOP has been widely demonstrated. In this article, we first describe the changes in the bone microenvironment of osteoporosis. Second, we describe the pathogenesis of DOP. Finally, we summarize the research progress and challenges of EVs in DOP.

The Role of Extracellular Vesicles and Microparticles in Central Nervous System Disorders: Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Potential

Microscopic, membranous vesicles known as extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been proposed to play a role in the mechanisms underlying central nervous system (CNS) diseases. EVs are secreted by a variety of cells, including myeloid, endothelial, microglial, oligodendroglial, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Body fluids such as plasma, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contain microparticles (MPs). The detection of MPs in CSF may indicate genetic or environmental susceptibility to conditions such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. MPs of different origins can exhibit changes in specific biomarkers at various stages of the disease, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of neurological conditions. However, understanding the role and clinical applications of MPs is complicated by challenges such as their isolation and dual roles within the CNS. In this review, we discuss the history, characteristics, and roles of MPs in CNS diseases. We also provide practical insights for future research and highlight the challenges that obscure the therapeutic potential of MPs.

Storage of plasma-derived exosomes: evaluation of anticoagulant use and preserving temperatures

Exosomes carry large cargo of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, serving as versatile biomarkers for disease diagnosis and vehicles for drug delivery. However, up to date, no well recognized standard procedures for exosome storage were available for clinical application. This study aimed to determine the optimal storage conditions and the anticoagulants for plasma-derived exosome isolation. Fresh whole blood samples were collected from healthy participants and preserved in four different anticoagulants including sodium citrate (SC1/4), sodium citrate (SC1/9), lithium heparin (LH), or Ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), respectively. Exosomes were extracted from the plasma by differential ultracentrifugation and stored at three different temperatures, 4°C, -20°C or - 80°C for a duration ranging from one week to six months. All plasma samples for storage conditions comparison were pretreated with LH anticoagulant. Exosome features including morphological characteristics, pariticles size diameter, and surface protein profiles (TSG101, CD63, CD81, CD9, CALNEXIN) were assessed by transmission electron microscopy, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis, and Western Blotting, respectively. Exosomes preserved in LH and SC1/4 group tended to remain intact microstructure with highly abundant protein biomarkers. Exosomes stored at 4°C for short time were prone to be more stable compared to thos at -80°C. Exosomes stored in plasma were superior in terms of ultrastructure, size diameter and surface protein expression to those stored in PBS. In conclusion, plasma-dervied exosome characteristics strictly depend on the anticoagulants and storage temperature and duration.

Engineered exosome as a biological nanoplatform for drug delivery of Rosmarinic acid to improve implantation in mice with induced endometritis

Endometritis is an inflammatory and histopathologic disease in uterine tissues that interferes with the proper decidualization and implantation of the embryo. In this study, rosmarinic acid (RA) is used as an anti-inflammatory agent that encapsulates in exosomes and is used to attenuate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endometritis and improve implantation. For this purpose, exosomes were loaded with RA and then administrated into the animal groups, including RA, exosome, RA plus exosome (RA + Exo), and RA-loaded exosomes (RALExo) groups. The concentrations of RA or exosomes used in this study were 10 mg/kg, and the compounds were injected into the uterine horn 24 h following the induction of endometritis. Upon the presence of inflammation detected by the histopathological method, the most proper groups were mated with male mice. The effect of the treatment group on the implantation rate, progesterone levels, and gene expressions were assessed by Chicago Blue staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Quantitative PCR (qPCR), respectively. Results showed RALExo10 and RA10 + Exo10 groups improved pathological alterations, enhanced progesterone levels, increased implantation rate, as well as heightened expression levels of Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and Mucin-16 (MUC-16) genes. Besides, the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines, including Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Interlukine-10 (IL-10), Interlukine-15 (IL-15), and Interlukine-18 (IL-18), were regulated. Our findings indicated that the expression of LIF, Muc-16 genes as well as IL-18, were significantly correlated with serum progesterone concentrations and the implantation rate in the treatment groups. The RALExo10 and RA10 + Exo10 groups showed ameliorated implantation rates in experimental groups.

Exosomes: intriguing mediators of intercellular communication in the organism's response to noxious agents

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that range from 30 to 150 nm in size and are formed through cellular endocytosis. They consist of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids at varying ratios and quantities. The composition and spatiotemporal dynamics of exosomes suggest that they play a crucial role in intercellular communication. The information conveyed by exosomes significantly impacts the regulation of health and disease states in the organism. The term "noxious" refers to all harmful environmental agents and conditions that can disrupt the physiological equilibrium and induce pathological states, regardless whether of radiological, biological, or chemical origin. This review comprehensively examines the presence of such noxious agents within the organism in relation to exosome formation and function. Furthermore, it explores the cause-effect relationship between noxious agents and exosomes, aiming to restore physiological homeostasis and prepare the organism for defence against harmful agents. Regardless of the specific bioinformatic content associated with each noxious agent, synthesis of data on the interactions between various types of noxious agents and exosomes reveals that an organized defence against these agents is unachievable without the support of exosomes. Consequently, exosomes are identified as the primary communication and information system within an organism, with their content being pivotal in maintaining the health-disease balance.

Exosomal miR-20b-5p Induces EMT and Enhances Progression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Via TGFBR2 Downregulation

The mechanism by which specific miRNAs in NSCLC exosomes regulate NSCLC progression remains unclear. First, exosomes were isolated and identified. Exosomes were labeled with PKH26 for cell tracking studies. Subsequently, BEAS-2B cells and BEAS-2B cell exosomes were transfected with miR-20b-5p mimics or miR-20b-5p inhibitors, and cell proliferation was measured by EdU and CCK-8. cell migration and invasion were detected by wound healing tests and Transwell. The potential target of miR-20b-5p was predicted and verified by luciferase assay. Relative expression levels of miR-20b-5p and TGFBR2 were detected by qRT-PCR. Protein expression level was detected by Western blot. In addition, A549 cell exosomes were injected into mice through the tail vein and the pathological changes of lung tissue were detected by HE staining. Expression levels of E-cadherin and Vimentin in lung tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry. Our results also showed that high levels of miR-20b-5p in exosomes generated from NSCLC cells conceivably enter the cytoplasm of their own cells and by downregulating TGFBR2, accelerate NSCLC invasion, migration and EMT while promoting NSCLC cell proliferation. Exosome analysis using clinical plasma specimens revealed that miR-20b-5p expression was considerably improved in exosomes from NSCLC patients compared with those from healthy controls. In vitro and in vivo, exosomes with high levels of miR-20b-5p were linked to the progression of NSCLC. Our data suggest that exosomes with high levels of miR-20b-5p can increase development and metastasis of NSCLC cells by downregulating TGFBR2, which would serve as a predictive and diagnostic marker for NSCLC.

The possible role of hypoxia-induced exosomes on the fibroblast metabolism in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) has a high incidence and prevalence among patients over 65 years old. While its exact etiology remains unknown, several risk factors have recently been identified. Hypoxia is associated with IPF due to the abnormal architecture of lung parenchyma and the accumulation of extracellular matrix produced by activated fibroblasts. Exosomes play a crucial role in intercellular communication during both physiological and pathological processes, including hypoxic diseases like IPF. Recent findings suggest that a hypoxic microenvironment influences the content of exosomes in various diseases, thereby altering cellular metabolism. Although the role of exosomes in IPF is an emerging area of research, the significance of hypoxic exosomes as inducers of metabolic reprogramming in fibroblasts is still underexplored. In this study, we analyze and discuss the relationship between hypoxia, exosomal cargo, and the metabolic reprogramming of fibroblasts in the progression of IPF.

The administration of human amniotic epithelial cells in premature ovarian insufficiency: From preclinical to clinical

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) or premature ovarian failure (POF) is a multifactorial disorder occurring in reproductive-age women, characterized by elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and irregular or absent menstrual cycles, often accompanied by perimenopausal symptoms and infertility. While assisted reproductive technology can address the reproductive aspirations of some POI-affected women, it is hindered by issues such as exorbitant expenses, substantial risks, and poor rates of conception. Encouragingly, extensive research is exploring novel approaches to enhance fertility, particularly in the realm of stem cell therapy, showcasing both feasibility and significant potential. Human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) from discarded placental tissues are crucial in regenerative medicine for their pluripotency, low immunogenicity, non-tumorigenicity, accessibility, and minimal ethical concerns. Preclinical studies highlight the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic effects of hAECs in POI treatment, and current research is focusing on innovative interventions to augment hAECs' efficacy. However, despite these strides, overcoming application challenges is essential for successful clinical translation. This paper conducted a comprehensive analysis of the aforementioned issues, examining the prospects and challenges of hAECs in POI, with the aim of providing some insights for future research and clinical practice.

Exosomes in Central Nervous System Diseases: A Comprehensive Review of Emerging Research and Clinical Frontiers

Exosomes, nano-sized lipid bilayer vesicles, have garnered significant attention as mediators of cell communication, particularly within the central nervous system (CNS). Their unique properties, including high stability, low immunogenicity, and the ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB), position them as promising tools for understanding and addressing CNS diseases. This comprehensive review delves into the biogenesis, properties, composition, functions, and isolation of exosomes, with a particular focus on their roles in cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and CNS tumors. Exosomes are involved in key pathophysiological processes in the CNS, including angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, and cellular microenvironment modification. They demonstrate promise in mitigating ischemic injury, regulating inflammatory responses, and providing neuroprotection across various CNS conditions. Furthermore, exosomes carry distinct biomolecules, offering a novel method for the early diagnosis and monitoring of CNS diseases. Despite their potential, challenges such as complex extraction processes, the heterogeneity of exosomal contents, and targeted delivery limitations hinder their clinical application. Nevertheless, exosomes hold significant promise for advancing our understanding of CNS diseases and developing novel therapeutic strategies. This manuscript significantly contributes to the field by highlighting exosomes' potential in advancing our understanding of CNS diseases, underscoring their unique value in developing novel therapeutic strategies and mediating cellular communication.

Mucosal Exosome Proteomics of Hybrid Grouper Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × E. lanceolatus♂ Infected by Pseudomonas plecoglossicida

Pseudomonas plecoglossicida infection, which causes visceral white spot disease, is a significant and economically devastating disease in aquaculture. In this study, we investigated the impact of bacterial infection on the protein composition of exosomes derived from the surface mucus of the hybrid grouper Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × E. lanceolatus♂. Two hundred healthy fish were randomly separated into challenge and control groups. Fish from the challenge group received 103 CFU/g of the bacterial pathogen P. plecoglossicida via intraperitoneal injection, while sterile PBS was used as a negative control. After injection, the mucus was collected and the exosomes were extracted for proteomic analysis. The results of proteomic analysis revealed that P. plecoglossicida infection significantly increased the levels of innate immune proteins, including lysosomal and peroxisomal proteins, within the exosomes. Furthermore, the CAD protein was found to play a pivotal role in the protein interaction networks involved in the response to P. plecoglossicida infection. Intriguingly, we also observed a significant increase in the levels of metal-binding proteins within the exosomes, providing important evidence of nutritional immunity on the surfaces of the fish hosts. Notably, several proteins, such as plasma kallikrein, Annexin A5, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit M, and S-methyl-5-thioadenosine phosphorylase, exhibited a remarkable increase in abundance in exosomes after infection. These proteins show promising potential as noninvasive biomarkers for the diagnosis of visceral white spot disease. The study contributes to the understanding of the host response to P. plecoglossicida infection and may aid policymakers in implementing appropriate intervention measures for effective risk management of this devastating disease.

Exosomes from Limosilactobacillus fermentum Ameliorate Benzalkonium Chloride-Induced Inflammation in Conjunctival Cells

Dry eye is characterized by persistent instability and decreased tear production, which are accompanied by epithelial lesions and inflammation on the surface of the eye. In our previous paper, we reported that supplementation with Limosilactobacillus fermentum HY7302 (HY7302) could inhibit corneal damage in a benzalkonium chloride (BAC)-induced mouse model of dry eye, through its effects in gut microbiome regulation. The aim of this study was to determine what functional extracellular substances can alter the inflammatory response of conjunctival cells. We isolated exosomes from HY7302 probiotic culture supernatant, analyzed their morphological characteristics, and found that their average size was 143.8 ± 1.1 nm, which was smaller than the exosomes from the L. fermentum KCTC 3112 strain. In addition, HY7302-derived exosomes significantly reduced the levels of genes encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-20, IL-8, IL-6, and IL-1B, in BAC-treated human conjunctival cells. Moreover, HY7302-derived exosomes significantly increased the levels of genes encoding tight junction proteins, including TJP1, TJP2, and occludin-1, in Caco-2 cells. Lastly, the HY7302 exosomes reduced mRNA expression levels of IL1B, IL20, IL6, IL8, and NFAT5 in a transwell coculture system. Our findings indicate that HY7302 exosomes have potential for use in the treatment of ocular inflammation-related dry eye disease, through gut-eye axis communication via exosomes.

Exploring the multiple therapeutic mechanisms and challenges of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder, and the current treatment options are limited. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos) have garnered significant attention due to their unique biological properties, showcasing tremendous potential as an acellular alternative therapy for AD. MSC-Exos exhibit excellent biocompatibility and low immunogenicity, enabling them to effectively cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and deliver therapeutic molecules directly to target cells. They are highly efficacious in delivering nucleic acid-based drugs. Moreover, the production process of MSC-Exos benefits from a high proliferation capacity and multilineage differentiation potential, allowing for production while maintaining a stable composition. Despite the significant theoretical advantages of MSC-Exos, their clinical use still faces multiple challenges, including cross-contamination during isolation and purification processes, the complexity of their components, and the presence of potential adverse paracrine factors. Future research needs to focus on optimizing separation and purification techniques, enhancing delivery methods to improve therapeutic efficacy, and performing detailed analyses of the components of MSC-Exos. In summary, MSC-Exos hold promise as an effective option for the treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases, driving their clinical research and use in related fields.

LSD1 deficiency in breast cancer cells promotes the formation of pre-metastatic niches

Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), a histone demethylating enzyme, plays a crucial role in cancer metastasis. Studies show LSD1 knockout promotes breast cancer lung metastasis, but it's unknown if it alters the lung microenvironment for metastasis. In this study, we investigated the effects of exosomes from LSD1-knockdown (LSD1 KD) breast cancer cells on pre-metastatic niche formation. Injecting exosomes from LSD1 KD cells in mice resulted in a substantial increase in lung colonization by breast cancer cells, while treatment with exosomes derived from LSD1 KD cells decreased the expression of the ZO-1 and occludin, leading to increased vascular permeability. The LSD1 KD reduced the expression of circDOCK1, which augmented the levels of miR-1270 in exosomes. And miR-1270 inhibited ZO-1 expression in human endothelial cells, which enhanced their permeability. Our study uncovered a novel mechanism in which the LSD1 promotes the formation of pre-metastatic niches via the regulation of exosomal miRNA.

Exosomes to exosome-functionalized scaffolds: a novel approach to stimulate bone regeneration

Bone regeneration is a complex biological process that relies on the orchestrated interplay of various cellular and molecular events. Bone tissue engineering is currently the most promising method for treating bone regeneration. However, the immunogenicity, stable and cell quantity of seed cells limited their application. Recently, exosomes, which are small extracellular vesicles released by cells, have been found to effectively address these problems and better induce bone regeneration. Meanwhile, a growing line of research has shown the cargos of exosomes may provide effective therapeutic and biomarker tools for bone repair, including miRNA, lncRNA, and proteins. Moreover, engineered scaffolds loaded with exosomes can offer a cell-free bone repair strategy, addressing immunogenicity concerns and providing a more stable functional performance. Herein, we provide a comprehensive summary of the role played by scaffolds loaded with exosomes in bone regeneration, drawing on a systematic analysis of relevant literature available on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar database.

Present and Future Use of Exosomes in Dermatology

Exposure to external environmental stimuli can lead to skin aging, pigmentation, hair loss, and various immune-mediated as well as connective tissue diseases. Although conventional treatments are routinely used and favoured, they fail to achieve an adequate balance between clinical and cosmetic outcomes. Exosomes are vesicles with a lipid bilayer released by several cell types. These bioactive vesicles play a crucial role in intercellular communication and in several other physiological and pathological processes. They serve as vehicles for bioactive substances including lipids, nucleic acids, and proteins, making them appealing as cell-free treatments. According to studies, exosomes play a vital role in preventing scarring, and senescence, and promoting wound healing. Moreover, research on the biology of exosomes is growing, which has enabled the creation of specific guidelines and quality control methodologies to support their potential implementation in the future. In this review, we have mainly focused on the role of exosomes in various dermatological diseases, their clinical applications, and the potential for further research pertaining to this.

Advancing Osteoarthritis Treatment: The Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes and Biomaterial Integration

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and debilitating joint disorder characterized by progressive cartilage degradation and inflammation, for which traditional treatments offer only symptomatic relief without halting disease progression. Exosomes, cell-free vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells, have emerged as a promising alternative therapy owing to their regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties.

METHODS

This review synthesizes findings from recent studies (2017-2023) on the therapeutic potential of exosomes in OA treatment, highlighting their ability to modulate the joint microenvironment, reduce inflammation, and promote cartilage repair by delivering bioactive molecules such as cytokines, growth factors, and regulatory ribonucleic acids.

RESULTS

We explore the integration of exosomes with biomaterials, such as hydrogels and scaffolds, to enhance their delivery and therapeutic efficacy, and we address the critical challenges associated with their clinical application, including standardization of isolation and characterization methods, scalability of production, mechanistic understanding, and long-term safety. Despite these challenges, exosome-based therapies offer several advantages over traditional and cell-based treatments, including lower immunogenicity, ease of handling, and targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to damaged tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide an analytical perspective on the current state of exosome research in OA, emphasizing the need for standardized production methods, deeper mechanistic insights, and rigorous long-term safety assessments. Future directions should focus on optimizing delivery systems, exploring personalized medicine approaches, and conducting comparative effectiveness studies to fully realize the potential of exosome therapies for OA treatment. Addressing these gaps will be crucial for translating exosome therapies from bench to bedside and achieving a transformative impact on OA management.

Understanding the role of soluble proteins and exosomes in non-invasive urine-based diagnosis of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy that can lead to stillbirth and preterm birth if not treated promptly. Currently, the diagnosis of preeclampsia relies on clinical symptoms such as hypertension and proteinuria, along with invasive blood tests. Here, we investigate the role of soluble proteins and exosomes in noninvasive diagnosing preeclampsia non-invasively using maternal urine and urine-derived exosomes. We quantified the levels of particles and the presence of TSG101 and CD63 in urine and urinary exosomes via the biologically intact exosome separation technology (BEST) platform. Then, we obtained higher levels of soluble proteins such as fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) from urine as it was than urinary exosomes. Compared to commercial blood tests, the sensitivity of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio was found to be 4.0 times higher in urine tests and 1.5 times higher in tests utilizing urine-derived exosomes. Our findings offer promising possibilities for the early and non-invasive identification of high-risk individuals at risk of preeclampsia, allowing for comprehensive preventive management.

Urine Extracellular Vesicles Size Subsets as Lupus Nephritis Biomarkers

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder that often leads to kidney injury, known as lupus nephritis (LN). Although renal biopsy is the primary way to diagnose LN, it is invasive and not practical for regular monitoring. As an alternative, several groups have proposed urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) as potential biomarkers for LN, as recent studies have shown their significance in reflecting kidney-related diseases. As a result, we developed a flow cytometry approach that allowed us to determine that LN patients exhibited a significantly higher total uEV concentration compared to SLE patients without kidney involvement. Additionally, an analysis of different-sized uEV subsets revealed that microvesicles ranging from 0.3 to 0.5 μm showed the most promise for distinguishing LN. These findings indicate that evaluating uEV concentration and size distribution could be a valuable diagnostic and monitoring tool for LN, pending further validation in more comprehensive studies.

Tumor Microenvironment-Derived Exosomes: A Double-Edged Sword for Advanced T Cell-Based Immunotherapy

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in cancer progression and immune evasion, partially mediated by the activity of the TME-derived exosomes. These extracellular vesicles are pivotal in shaping immune responses through the transfer of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells, facilitating a complex interplay that promotes tumor growth and metastasis. This review delves into the dual roles of exosomes in the TME, highlighting both their immunosuppressive functions and their emerging therapeutic potential. Exosomes can inhibit T cell function and promote tumor immune escape by carrying immune-modulatory molecules, such as PD-L1, yet they also hold promise for cancer therapy as vehicles for delivering tumor antigens and costimulatory signals. Additionally, the review discusses the intricate crosstalk mediated by exosomes among various cell types within the TME, influencing both cancer progression and responses to immunotherapies. Moreover, this highlights current challenges and future directions. Collectively, elucidating the detailed mechanisms by which TME-derived exosomes mediate T cell function offers a promising avenue for revolutionizing cancer treatment. Understanding these interactions allows for the development of targeted therapies that manipulate exosomal pathways to enhance the immune system's response to tumors.

Unveiling exosomes: Cutting-edge isolation techniques and their therapeutic potential

Exosomes are one type of nanosized membrane vesicles with an endocytic origin. They are secreted by almost all cell types and play diverse functional roles. It is essential for research purposes to differentiate exosomes from microvesicles and isolate them from other components in a fluid sample or cell culture medium. Exosomes are important mediators in cell-cell communication. They deliver their cargos, such as mRNA transcripts, microRNA, lipids, cytosolic and membrane proteins and enzymes, to target cells with or without physical connections between cells. They are highly heterogeneous in size, and their biological functions can vary depending on the cell type, their ability to interact with recipient cells and transport their contents, and the environment in which they are produced. This review summarized the recent progress in exosome isolation and characterization techniques. Moreover, we review the therapeutic approaches, biological functions of exosomes in disease progression, tumour metastasis regulation, immune regulation and some ongoing clinical trials.

Exosomal membrane proteins analysis using a silicon nanowire field effect transistor biosensor

Exosomes are of great significance in clinical diagnosis, due to their high homology with parental generation, which can reflect the pathophysiological status. However, the quantitative and classification detection of exosomes is still faced with the challenges of low sensitivity and complex operation. In this study, we develop an electrical and label-free method to directly detect exosomes with high sensitivity based on a Silicon nanowire field effect transistor biosensor (Si-NW Bio-FET). First, the impact of Debye length on Si-NW Bio-FET detection was investigated through simulation. The simulation results demonstrated that as the Debye length increased, the electrical response to Si-NW produced by charged particle at a certain distance from the surface of Si-NW was greater. A Si-NW Bio-FET modified with specific antibody CD81 on the nanowire was fabricated then used for detection of cell line-derived exosomes, which achieved a low limit of detection (LOD) of 1078 particles/mL in 0.01 × PBS. Furthermore, the Si-NW Bio-FETs modified with specific antibody CD9, CD81 and CD63 respectively, were employed to distinguish exosomes derived from human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cell line in three different states (control group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inflammation group, and LPS + Romidepsin (FK228) drug treatment group), which was consistent with nano-flow cytometry. This study provides a highly sensitive method of directly quantifying exosomes without labeling, indicating its potential as a tool for disease surveillance and medication instruction.

Harnessing the Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cancer Treatment

Cancer, as a complicated disease, is considered to be one of the major leading causes of death globally. Although various cancer therapeutic strategies have been established, however, some issues confine the efficacies of the treatments. In recent decades researchers for finding efficient therapeutic solutions have extensively focused on the abilities of stem cells in cancer inhibition. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stromal cells that can the most widely extracted from various sources such as the bone marrow (BM), placenta, umbilical cord (UC), menses blood, Wharton's jelly (WJ), adipose tissue and dental pulp (DP). These cells are capable of differentiating into the osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. Due to the unique characteristics of MSCs such as paracrine effects, immunomodulation, tumor-tropism, and migration, they are considered promising candidates for cancer therapeutics. Currently, MSCs are an excellent living carrier for delivery of therapeutic genes and chemical agents to target tumor sites. Also, exosomes, the most important extracellular vesicle released from MSCs, act as a strong cell-free tool for cancer therapeutics. MSCs can prevent cancer progression by inhibiting several signaling pathways, such as wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/AKT/mTOR. However, there are several challenges associated with the use of MSCs and their exosomes in the field of therapy that need to be considered. This review explores the significance of MSCs in cell-based therapy, focusing on their homing properties and immunomodulatory characteristics. It also examines the potential of using MSCs as carriers for delivery of anticancer agents and their role in modulating the signal transduction pathways of cancer cells.

Anti-aging based on stem cell therapy: A scoping review

Stem cells are present in the tissues and organs and remain in a quiescent and undifferentiated state until it is physiologically necessary to produce new descendant cells. Due to their multipotency property, mesenchymal stem cells have attracted considerable attention worldwide due to their immunomodulation and therapeutic function in tissue regeneration. Stem cells secrete components such as paracrine factors, extracellular vesicles, and exosomes which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, reconstruction and wound healing potentials in many in vitro and in vivo models. The pluripotency and immunomodulatory features of stem cells could potentially be an effective tool in cell therapy and tissue repair. Aging affects the capacity for self-renewal and differentiation of stem cells, decreasing the potential for regeneration and the loss of optimal functions in organisms over time. Current progress in the field of cellular therapy and regenerative medicine has facilitated the evolution of particular guidelines and quality control approaches, which eventually lead to clinical trials. Cell therapy could potentially be one of the most promising therapies to control aging due to the fact that single stem cell transplantation can regenerate or substitute the injured tissue. To understand the involvement of stem cells not only in tissue maintenance and disease but also in the control of aging it is important to know and identify their properties, functions, and regulation in vivo, which are addressed in this review.

The expression and clinical significance of syncytin-1 in serum exosomes of hepatocellular carcinoma patients

This study aimed to investigate the expression and clinical significance of syncytin-1 in the serum exosomes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. Serum samples were collected from 61 patients with newly diagnosed HCC and 61 healthy individuals. Exosomes were extracted from serum samples and identified using transmission electron microscopy and Western blot. The relative expression levels of syncytin-1 in exosomes were determined by real-time quantitative PCR. The protein expression levels of alpha-fetoprotein and syncytin-1 in HCC patients were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of serum exosomal syncytin-1 in diagnosing HCC. The relationships between syncytin-1 expression and clinical pathological features were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The results showed that the expression level of syncytin-1 in the serum of patients with newly diagnosed HCC was significantly higher than that in the normal control group (P < 0.0001). Using pathological diagnosis as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of syncytin-1 for the auxiliary diagnosis of HCC were 91.3% and 75.5%, respectively, which were significantly higher than those of alpha-fetoprotein (P < 0.0001). The relative expression level of serum exosomal syncytin-1 was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis, degree of differentiation, and CNLC staging of HCC patients (P < 0.05). In conclusion, syncytin-1 in serum exosomes has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing HCC and can serve as a novel tumor marker for early screening, detection, and staging of HCC.

LSD1 inhibits the invasion and migration of breast cancer through exosomes

Metastasis accounts for almost 90% of breast cancer-related fatalities, making it frequent malignancy and the main reason of tumor mortality globally among women. LSD1 is a histone demethylase, which plays an important role in breast cancer. In order to explore the effect of LSD1 on invasion and migration of breast cancer, we treated breast cancer cells with MCF7 and T47D exosomes knocked down by LSD1, and the invasion and migration of breast cancer cells were significantly enhanced. This phenomenon indicates that LSD1 can inhibit the invasion and migration of breast cancer cells. miR-1290 expression was downregulated in LSD1 knockdown MCF7 exosomes. By analyzing the database of miR-1290 target gene NAT1, we verified that miR-1290 could regulate the expression of NAT1. These data provide fresh insights into the biology of breast cancer therapy by demonstrating how the epigenetic factor LSD1 stimulates the breast cancer cells' invasion and migration via controlling exosomal miRNA.

Unraveling the pathogenesis of myelosuppression and therapeutic potential of natural products

BACKGROUND

Myelosuppression is a serious and common complication of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in cancer patients and is characterized by a reduction of peripheral blood cells. This condition not only compromises the efficacy of treatment but also increases the risk of patient death. Natural products are emerging as promising adjuvant therapies due to their antioxidant properties, ability to modulate immune responses, and capacity to stimulate haematopoietic stem cell proliferation. These therapies demonstrate significant potential in ameliorating myelosuppression.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed utilizing the search terms "natural products," "traditional Chinese medicine," and "myelosuppression" across prominent databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science. All pertinent literature was meticulously analysed and summarized. The objective of this study was to perform a pertinent analysis to elucidate the mechanisms underlying myelosuppression and to categorize and synthesize information on natural products and traditional Chinese medicines employed for the therapeutic management of myelosuppression.

RESULTS

Myelosuppression resulting from drug and radiation exposure, viral infections, and exosomes is characterized by multiple underlying mechanisms involving immune factors, target genes, and the activation of diverse signalling pathways, including the (TGF-β)/Smad pathway. Recently, traditional Chinese medicine monomers and compounds, including more than twenty natural products, such as Astragalus and Angelica, have shown promising potential as therapeutics for ameliorating myelosuppression. These natural products exert their effects by modulating haematopoietic stem cells, immune factors, and critical signalling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding the various mechanisms of myelosuppression facilitates the exploration of natural product therapies and biological target identification for evaluating herbal medicine efficacy. This study aimed to establish a foundation for the clinical application of natural products and provide methodologies and technical support for exploring additional treatments for myelosuppression.

Optimizing Conditions of Polyethylene Glycol Precipitation for Exosomes Isolation From MSCs Culture Media for Regenerative Treatment

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes, as a cell-free alternative to MSCs, offer enhanced safety and significant potential in regenerative medicine. However, isolating these exosomes poses a challenge, complicating their broader application. Commonly used methods like ultracentrifugation (UC) and tangential flow filtration are often impractical due to the requirement for costly instruments and ultrafiltration membranes. Additionally, the high cost of commercial kits limits their use in processing large sample volumes. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation offers a more convenient and cost-effective alternative, but there is a critical need for optimized and standardized isolation protocols using PEG precipitation across different cell types and fluids to ensure consistent quality and yield. In this work, we optimized the PEG precipitation method for exosomes isolation and compared its effectiveness to two commonly used methods: UC and commercial exosome isolation kits (ExoQuick). The recovery rate of the optimized PEG method (about 61.74%) was comparable to that of the commercial ExoQuick kit (about 62.19%), which was significantly higher than UC (about 45.80%). Exosome cargo analysis validated no significant differences in miRNA and protein profiles associated with the proliferation and migration of exosomes isolated by UC and PEG precipitation, which was confirmed by gap closure and CCK8 assays. These findings suggest that PEG-based exosomes isolation could be a highly efficient and high-quality method and may facilitate the development of exosome-based therapies for regenerative medicine.

Circular RNAs in human diseases

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a unique class of RNA molecules formed through back-splicing rather than linear splicing. As an emerging field in molecular biology, circRNAs have garnered significant attention due to their distinct structure and potential functional implications. A comprehensive understanding of circRNAs' functions and potential clinical applications remains elusive despite accumulating evidence of their involvement in disease pathogenesis. Recent research highlights their significant roles in various human diseases, but comprehensive reviews on their functions and applications remain scarce. This review provides an in-depth examination of circRNAs, focusing first on their involvement in non-neoplastic diseases such as respiratory, endocrine, metabolic, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and renal disorders. We then explore their roles in tumors, with particular emphasis on exosomal circular RNAs, which are crucial for cancer initiation, progression, and resistance to treatment. By detailing their biogenesis, functions, and impact on disease mechanisms, this review underscores the potential of circRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The review not only enhances our understanding of circRNAs' roles in specific diseases and tumor types but also highlights their potential as novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools, thereby paving the way for future clinical investigations and potential therapeutic interventions.

Unignored intracellular journey and biomedical applications of extracellular vesicles

The intracellular journey of extracellular vesicles (EVs) cannot be ignored in various biological pathological processes. In this review, the biogenesis, biological functions, uptake pathways, intracellular trafficking routes, and biomedical applications of EVs were highlighted. Endosomal escape is a unique mode of EVs release. When vesicles escape from endosomes, they avoid the fate of fusing with lysosomes and being degraded, thus having the opportunity to directly enter the cytoplasm or other organelles. This escape mechanism is crucial for EVs to deliver specific signals or substances. The intracellular trafficking of EVs after endosomal escape is a complex and significant biological process that involves the coordinated work of various cellular structures and molecules. Through the in-depth study of this process, the function and regulatory mechanism of EVs are fully understood, providing new dimensions for future biomedical diagnosis and treatment.

Hydrogel encapsulation of mesenchymal stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles as a novel therapeutic approach in cancer therapy

Cell therapy has emerged as one of the most promising approaches to treating disease in recent decades. The application of stem cells in anti-tumor therapy is determined by their varying capacity for proliferation, migration, and differentiation. These capacities are derived from different sources. The use of stem cell carriers in cancer treatment is justified by the following three reasons: (I) shield therapeutic agents from swift biological deterioration; (II) reduce systemic side effects; and (III) increase local therapeutic levels since stem cells have an innate ability to target tumors. The quantity of stem cells confined to the tumor microenvironment determines this system's anti-tumor activity. Nevertheless, there are limitations to the use of different types of stem cells. When immune cells are used in cell therapy, it may lead to cytokine storms and improper reactions to self-antigens. Furthermore, the use of stem cells may result in cancer. Additionally, after an intravenous injection, cells could not migrate to the injury location. Exosomes derived from different cells were thus proposed as possible therapeutic options. Exosomes are becoming more and more well-liked because of their small size, biocompatibility, and simplicity in storage and separation. A number of investigations have shown that adding various medications and microRNAs to exosomes may enhance their therapeutic effectiveness. Thus, it is essential to evaluate studies looking into the therapeutic effectiveness of encapsulated exosomes. In this review, we looked at studies on encapsulated exosomes' use in regenerative medicine and the treatment of cancer. The results imply that the therapeutic potential increases when encapsulated exosomes are used rather than intact exosomes. Therefore, in order to optimize the effectiveness of the treatment, it is advised to implement this technique in accordance with the kind of therapy.

The role of cells and their derivatives in otorhinolaryngologic diseases treatment

Otolaryngology is an important specialty in the field of surgery that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the ear, nose, throat, trachea, as well as related anatomical structures. Various otolaryngological disorders are difficult to treat using established pharmacological and surgical approaches. The advent of molecular and cellular therapies led to further progress in this respect. This article reviews the therapeutic strategies of using stem cells, immune cells, and chondrocytes in otorhinolaryngology. As the most widely recognized cell derivatives, exosomes were also systematically reviewed for their therapeutic potential in head and neck cancer, otitis media, and allergic rhinitis. Finally, we summarize the limitations of stem cells, chondrocytes, and exosomes, as well as possible solutions, and provide an outlook on the future direction of cell- and derivative-based therapies in otorhinolaryngology, to offer a theoretical foundation for the clinical translation of this therapeutic modality.

From Crypts to Cancer: A Holistic Perspective on Colorectal Carcinogenesis and Therapeutic Strategies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a significant global health burden, with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Recent progress in research highlights the distinct clinical and molecular characteristics of colon versus rectal cancers, underscoring tumor location's importance in treatment approaches. This article provides a comprehensive review of our current understanding of CRC epidemiology, risk factors, molecular pathogenesis, and management strategies. We also present the intricate cellular architecture of colonic crypts and their roles in intestinal homeostasis. Colorectal carcinogenesis multistep processes are also described, covering the conventional adenoma-carcinoma sequence, alternative serrated pathways, and the influential Vogelstein model, which proposes sequential APC, KRAS, and TP53 alterations as drivers. The consensus molecular CRC subtypes (CMS1-CMS4) are examined, shedding light on disease heterogeneity and personalized therapy implications.

Targeting limbal epithelial stem cells: master conductors of corneal epithelial regeneration from the bench to multilevel theranostics

The cornea is the outermost layer of the eye and plays an essential role in our visual system. Limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs), which are localized to a highly regulated limbal niche, are the master conductors of corneal epithelial regeneration. Damage to LESCs and their niche may result in limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), a disease confused ophthalmologists so many years and can lead to corneal conjunctivalization, neovascularization, and even blindness. How to restore the LESCs function is the hot topic for ocular scientists and clinicians around the world. This review introduced LESCs and the niche microenvironment, outlined various techniques for isolating and culturing LESCs used in LSCD research, presented common diseases that cause LSCD, and provided a comprehensive overview of both the diagnosis and multiple treatments for LSCD from basic research to clinical therapies, especially the emerging cell therapies based on various stem cell sources. In addition, we also innovatively concluded the latest strategies in recent years, including exogenous drugs, tissue engineering, nanotechnology, exosome and gene therapy, as well as the ongoing clinical trials for treating LSCD in recent five years. Finally, we highlighted challenges from bench to bedside in LSCD and discussed cutting-edge areas in LSCD therapeutic research. We hope that this review could pave the way for future research and translation on treating LSCD, a crucial step in the field of ocular health.

Isolation and Characterization of Exosomes from Cancer Cells Using Antibody-Functionalized Paddle Screw-Type Devices and Detection of Exosomal miRNA Using Piezoelectric Biosensor

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles produced by almost all cell types in the human body, and exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that are known to serve as important biomarkers for diseases such as cancer. Given that the upregulation of miR-106b is closely associated with several types of malignancies, the sensitive and accurate detection of miR-106b is important but difficult. In this study, a surface acoustic wave (SAW) biosensor was developed to detect miR-106b isolated from cancer cells based on immunoaffinity separation technique using our unique paddle screw device. Our novel SAW biosensor could detect a miR-106b concentration as low as 0.0034 pM in a linear range from 0.1 pM to 1.0 μM with a correlation coefficient of 0.997. Additionally, we were able to successfully detect miR-106b in total RNA extracted from the exosomes isolated from the MCF-7 cancer cell line, a model system for human breast cancer, with performance comparable to commercial RT-qPCR methods. Therefore, the exosome isolation by the paddle screw method and the miRNA detection using the SAW biosensor has the potential to be used in basic biological research and clinical diagnosis as an alternative to RT-qPCR.

Dental Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes: A Review of Their Isolation, Classification, Functions, and Mechanisms

The scientific field concerned with the study of regeneration has developed rapidly in recent years. Stem cell therapy is a highly promising therapeutic modality for repairing tissue defects; however, several limitations exist, such as cytotoxicity, potential immune rejection, and ethical issues. Exosomes secreted by stem cells are cell-specific secreted vesicles that play a regulatory role in many biological functions in the human body; they not only have a series of functional roles of stem cells and exert the expected therapeutic effects, but they can also overcome the mass limitations of stem cells and are thus considered in the research as an alternative treatment strategy for stem cells. Since dental stem cell-derived exosomes (DSC-Exos) are easy to acquire and present modulating effects in several fields, including neurovascular regeneration and craniofacial soft and hard tissue regeneration processes, they are served as an emerging cell-free therapeutic strategy in various systematic diseases. There is a growing body of research on various types of DSC-Exos; however, they lack systematic elaboration and tabular summarization. Therefore, this review presents the isolation, characterization, and phenotypes of DSC-Exos and focuses on their current status of functions and mechanisms, as well as the multiple challenges prior to clinical applications.

Future embracing: exosomes driving a revolutionary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a leading cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults and is associated with high rates of end-stage renal disease. Early detection and precise interventions are crucial for improving patient prognosis and quality of life. However, the current diagnosis primarily relies on renal biopsies and traditional biomarkers, which have limitations. Additionally, targeted therapeutic strategies are lacking. Exosomes, small vesicles that facilitate intercellular communication, have emerged as potential noninvasive diagnostic markers due to their stability, diverse cargo, and rapid detectability. They also hold promise as carriers for gene and drug delivery, presenting innovative opportunities in renal disease prognosis and treatment. However, research on exosomes in the context of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) remains limited, with a focus on exploring urinary exosomes as IMN markers. In this review, we summarize the current status of MN diagnosis and treatment, highlight the fundamental characteristics of exosomes, and discuss recent advancements in their application to IMN diagnosis and therapy. We provide insights into the clinical prospects of exosomes in IMN and acknowledge potential challenges. This article aims to offer forward-looking insights into the future of exosome-mediated IMN diagnosis and treatment, indicating a revolutionary transformation in this field.

Antioxidant Potential of Exosomes in Animal Nutrition

This review delves into the advantages of exosomes as novel antioxidants in animal nutrition and their potential for regulating oxidative stress. Although traditional nutritional approaches promote oxidative stress defense systems in mammalian animals, several issues remain to be solved, such as low bioavailability, targeted tissue efficiency, and high-dose by-effect. As an important candidate offering regulation opportunities concerned with cellular communication, disease prevention, and physiology regulation in multiple biological systems, the potential of exosomes in mediating redox status in biological systems has not been well described. A previously reported relationship between redox system regulation and circulating exosomes suggested exosomes as a fundamental candidate for both a regulator and biomarker for a redox system. Herein, we review the effects of oxidative stress on exosomes in animals and the potential application of exosomes as antioxidants in animal nutrition. Then, we highlight the advantages of exosomes as redox regulators due to their higher bioavailability and physiological heterogeneity-targeted properties, providing a theoretical foundation and feed industry application. Therefore, exosomes have shown great potential as novel antioxidants in the field of animal nutrition. They can overcome the limitations of traditional antioxidants in terms of dosage and side effects, which will provide unprecedented opportunities in nutritional management and disease prevention, and may become a major breakthrough in the field of animal nutrition.

The role of regulatory T cells in vitiligo and therapeutic advances: a mini-review

BACKGROUND

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play vital roles in controlling immune reactions and maintaining immune tolerance in the body. The targeted destruction of epidermal melanocytes by activated CD8+T cells is a key event in the development of vitiligo. However, Tregs may exert immunosuppressive effects on CD8+T cells, which could be beneficial in treating vitiligo.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed and Web of Science was conducted to gather information on Tregs and vitiligo.

RESULTS

In vitiligo, there is a decrease in Treg numbers and impaired Treg functions, along with potential damage to Treg-related signaling pathways. Increasing Treg numbers and enhancing Treg function could lead to immunosuppressive effects on CD8+T cells. Recent research progress on Tregs in vitiligo has been summarized, highlighting various Treg-related therapies being investigated for clinical use. The current status of Treg-related therapeutic strategies and potential future directions for vitiligo treatment are also discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

A deeper understanding of Tregs will be crucial for advancing Treg-related drug discovery and treatment development in vitiligo.

Advances in Exosome-Based Therapies for the Repair of Peripheral Nerve Injuries

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) are the term used to describe injuries that occur to the nerve fibers of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Such injuries may be caused by trauma, infection, or aberrant immunological response. Although the peripheral nervous system has a limited capacity for self-repair, in cases of severe damage, this process is either interrupted entirely or is only partially completed. The evaluation of variables that promote the repair of peripheral nerves has consistently been a focal point. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles that originate from cellular sources and possess abundant proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, play a critical role in facilitating intercellular communication. Due to their modifiable composition, they possess exceptional capabilities as carriers for therapeutic compounds, including but not limited to mRNAs or microRNAs. Exosome-based therapies have gained significant attention in the treatment of several nervous system diseases due to their advantageous properties, such as low toxicity, high stability, and limited immune system activation. The objective of this review article is to provide an overview of exosome-based treatments that have been developed in recent years for a range of PNIs, including nerve trauma, diabetic neuropathy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), glaucoma, and Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). It was concluded that exosomes could provide favorable results in the improvement of peripheral PNIs by facilitating the transfer of regenerative factors. The development of bioengineered exosome therapy for PNIs should be given more attention to enhance the efficacy of exosome treatment for PNIs.

Exosomes: Their role in the diagnosis, progression, metastasis, and treatment of glioblastoma

Exosomes are crucial for the growth and spread of glioblastomas, an aggressive form of brain cancer. These tiny vesicles play a crucial role in the activation of signaling pathways and intercellular communication. They can also transfer a variety of biomolecules such as proteins, lipids and nucleic acids from donor to recipient cells. Exosomes can influence the immune response by regulating the activity of immune cells, and they are crucial for the growth and metastasis of glioblastoma cells. In addition, exosomes contribute to drug resistance during treatment, which is a major obstacle in the treatment of glioblastoma. By studying them, the diagnosis and prognosis of glioblastoma can be improved. Due to their high biocompatibility and lack of toxicity, they have become an attractive option for drug delivery. The development of exosomes as carriers of specific therapeutic agents could overcome some of the obstacles to effective treatment of glioblastoma. In this review, we address the potential of exosomes for the treatment of glioblastoma and show how they can be modified for this purpose.

Eosinophil-derived extracellular vesicles: isolation and classification techniques and implications for disease pathophysiology

Eosinophils are leukocytes characterized by their ability to release granule content that is highly rich in enzymes and proteins. Besides the antihelminthic, bactericidal, and antiviral properties of eosinophils and their secretory granules, these also play a prominent role in the pathophysiology of diseases such as asthma, eosinophilic esophagitis, and other hypereosinophilic conditions by causing tissue damage and airway hyperresponsiveness. Although this cell was first recognized mainly for its capacity to release granule content, nowadays other capabilities such as cytokine secretion have been linked to its physiology, and research has found that eosinophils are not only involved in innate immunity, but also as orchestrators of immune responses. Nearly 10 yr ago, eosinophil-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) were first described; since then, the EV field has grown exponentially, revealing their vital roles in intracellular communication. In this review, we synthesize current knowledge on eosinophil-derived EVs, beginning with a description of what they are and what makes them important regulators of disease, followed by an account of the methodologies used to isolate and characterize EVs. We also summarize current understanding of eosinophil-derived vesicles functionality, especially in asthma, the disease in which eosinophil-derived EVs have been most widely studied, describing how they modulate the role of eosinophils themselves (through autocrine signaling) and the way they affect airway structural cells and airway remodeling. Deeper understanding of this cell type could lead to novel research in eosinophil biology, its role in other diseases, and possible use of eosinophil-derived EVs as therapeutic targets.

Nebulized milk exosomes loaded with siTGF-β1 ameliorate pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting EMT pathway and enhancing collagen permeability

Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF) is a fatal disease in the interstitial lung associated with high mortality, morbidity, and poor prognosis. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a fibroblast-activating protein that promotes fibrous diseases. Herein, an inhalable system was first developed using milk exosomes (M-Exos) encapsulating siRNA against TGF-β1 (MsiTGF-β1), and their therapeutic potential for bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF was investigated. M-siTGF-β1 was introduced into the lungs of mice with PF through nebulization. The collagen penetration effect and lysosomal escape ability were verified in vitro. Inhaled MsiTGF-β1 notably alleviated inflammatory infiltration, attenuated extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, and increased the survival rate of PF mice by 4.7-fold. M-siTGF-β1 protected lung tissue from BLM toxicity by efficiently delivering specific siRNA to the lungs, leading to TGF-β1 mRNA silencing and epithelial mesenchymal transition pathway inhibition. Therefore, M-siTGF-β1 offers a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention in fibrosis-related disorders.

Exosomal miR-7-25207 Increases Subgroup J Avian Leukosis Virus Titers by Targeting the Akt-CyclinQ1 and PRC1-YAF2 Dual Pathways

Subgroup J avian leukosis virus (ALV-J) is a major pathogen in poultry, causing substantial economic losses to the poultry industry worldwide. Exosomal small RNAs derived from virus-infected cells or biological fluids can serve as viral transmission vectors. However, the role and mechanism of exosomal miRNA in ALV-J infection are unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that exosomal microRNA-7-25207 (miR-7-25207) could increase the titers of ALV-J. Exosomes isolated from ALV-J-infected DF-1 cells (Exo-ALV-J) contained partial viral proteins from ALV-J and could transmit the infection to uninfected DF-1 cells, leading to productive infection. Additionally, the RNA expression profile of exosomes was altered following ALV-J infection. miRNA analysis revealed that the expression of exosomal miR-7-25207 increased. Overexpression of miR-7-25207 significantly increased the titers of ALV-J in transfected cells. Furthermore, miR-7-25207 directly suppressed the expression of Akt and PRC1. Akt, in turn, directly inhibited CyclinQ1 expression, while PRC1 directly interfered with YAF2 expression. In conclusion, ALV-J infection activates the expression of miR-7-25207, which is subsequently delivered via exosomes to uninfected cells, increasing ALV-J titers by targeting Akt-CyclinQ1 and PRC1-YAF2 dual pathways. These findings suggest that exosomal miR-7-25207 may serve as a potential biomarker for clinical parameters in ALV-J infection.

Exosomes-based immunotherapy for cancer: Effective components in the naïve and engineered forms

Today, cancer treatment is one of the main challenges for researchers. The main cause of tumor cell formation is mutations that lead to uncontrolled proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis in malignant cells. Tumor cells also create a microenvironment that can suppress the immune system cells' responses through various methods, including producing soluble factors and cell-to-cell communication. After being produced from tumor cells, exosomes can also affect the functions of other cells in this microenvironment. Various studies have shown that exosomes from different sources, including tumor cells and immune cells, can be used to treat cancers due to their characteristics. Since tumor cells are rich sources of various types of tumor peptides, they can induce anti-tumor responses. Immune cells also produce exosomes that mimic the functions of their cells of origin, such that exosomes derived from NK cells and CTLs can directly lead to their apoptosis after merging with tumor cells. However, many researchers have pointed out that naïve exosomes have a limited therapeutic function, and their therapeutic potential can be increased by manipulating and engineering them. There are various methods to modify exosomes and improve their therapeutic potential. In general, these methods are divided into two parts, which include changing the cell of origin of the exosome and encapsulating the exosome to carry different drugs. In this review, we will discuss the studies on the therapeutic use of naive and engineered exosomes and provide an update on new studies in this field.

Therapeutic and diagnostic applications of exosomes in colorectal cancer

Exosomes play a key role in colorectal cancer (CRC) related processes. This review explores the various functions of exosomes in CRC and their potential as diagnostic markers, therapeutic targets, and drug delivery vehicles. Exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) significantly influence CRC progression. Specific exosomal lncRNAs are linked to drug resistance and tumor growth, respectively, highlighting their therapeutic potential. Similarly, miRNAs like miR-21, miR-10b, and miR-92a-3p, carried by exosomes, contribute to chemotherapy resistance by altering signaling pathways and gene expression in CRC cells. The review also discusses exosomes' utility in CRC diagnosis. Exosomes from cancer cells have distinct molecular signatures compared to healthy cells, making them reliable biomarkers. Specific exosomal lncRNAs (e.g., CRNDE-h) and miRNAs (e.g., miR-17-92a) have shown effectiveness in early CRC detection and monitoring of treatment responses. Furthermore, exosomes show promise as vehicles for targeted drug delivery. The potential of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes in CRC treatment is also noted, with their role varying from promoting to inhibiting tumor progression. The application of multi-omics approaches to exosome research is highlighted, emphasizing the potential for discovering novel CRC biomarkers through comprehensive genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses. The review also explores the emerging field of exosome-based vaccines, which utilize exosomes' natural properties to elicit strong immune responses. In conclusion, exosomes represent a promising frontier in CRC research, offering new avenues for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Their unique properties and versatile functions underscore the need for continued investigation into their clinical applications and underlying mechanisms.

Unveiling the role of exosomes as cellular messengers in neurodegenerative diseases and their potential therapeutic implications

Exosomes are a subgroup of extracellular vesicles that function as transmitters, allowing cells to communicate more effectively with each other. However, exosomes may have both beneficial and harmful impacts on central nervous system disorders. Hence, the fundamental molecular mechanisms of the origin of illness and its progression are currently being investigated. The involvement of exosomes in the origin and propagation of neurodegenerative illness has been demonstrated recently. Exosomes provide a representation of the intracellular environment since they include various essential bioactive chemicals. The latest studies have demonstrated that exosomes transport several proteins. Additionally, these physiological vesicles are important in the regeneration of nervous tissue and the healing of neuronal lesions. They also offer a microenvironment to stimulate the conformational variation of concerning proteins for aggregation, resulting in neurodegenerative diseases. The biosynthesis, composition, and significance of exosomes as extracellular biomarkers in neurodegenerative disorders are discussed in this article, with a particular emphasis on their neuroprotective effects.

Extracellular vesicles released by LPS-stimulated spinal organotypic slices spread neuroinflammation into naïve slices through connexin43 hemichannel opening and astrocyte aberrant calcium dynamics

Introduction

Neuroinflammation is a hallmark of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, shared by all pathological processes which primarily impact on neurons, including Central Nervous System (CNS) injuries. In reactive CNS, activated glia releases extracellular vesicles (EVs), nanosized membranous particles known to play a key role in intercellular communication. EVs mediate neuroinflammatory responses and might exacerbate tissue deterioration, ultimately influencing neurodegenerative disease progression.

Methods

We treated spinal cord organotypic slices with LPS, a ligand extensively used to induce sEVs release, to mimic mild inflammatory conditions. We combine atomic force microscopy (AFM), nanoparticle tracking (NTA) and western blot (WB) analysis to validate the isolation and characterisation of sEVs. We further use immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy with live calcium imaging by GCaMP6f reporter to compare glial reactivity to treatments with sEVs when isolated from resting and LPS treated organ slices.

Results

In our study, we focus on CNS released small EVs (sEVs) and their impact on the biology of inflammatory environment. We address sEVs local signalling within the CNS tissue, in particular their involvement in inflammation spreading mechanism(s). sEVs are harvested from mouse organotypic spinal cord cultures, an in vitro model which features 3D complexity and retains spinal cord resident cells. By confocal microscopy and live calcium imaging we monitor glial responses in naïve spinal slices when exposed to sEVs isolated from resting and LPS treated organ slices.

Discussion

We show that sEVs, only when released during LPS neuroinflammation, recruit naïve astrocytes in the neuroinflammation cycle and we propose that such recruitment be mediated by EVs hemichannel (HC) permeability.

Exosome-derived microRNAs: emerging players in vitiligo

Exosome-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) are biomacromolecules and nanoscale extracellular vesicles originating from intracellular compartments that are secreted by most cells into the extracellular space. This review examines the formation and function of exosomal miRNAs in biological information transfer, explores the pathogenesis of vitiligo, and highlights the relationship between exosomal miRNAs and vitiligo. The aim is to deepen the understanding of how exosomal miRNAs influence immune imbalance, oxidative stress damage, melanocyte-keratinocyte interactions, and melanogenesis disorders in the development of vitiligo. This enhanced understanding may contribute to the development of potential diagnostic and therapeutic options for vitiligo.

Harnessing extracellular vesicles-mediated signaling for enhanced bone regeneration: novel insights into scaffold design

The increasing prevalence of bone replacements and complications associated with bone replacement procedures underscores the need for innovative tissue restoration approaches. Existing synthetic grafts cannot fully replicate bone vascularization and mechanical characteristics. This study introduces a novel strategy utilizing pectin, chitosan, and polyvinyl alcohol to create interpenetrating polymeric network (IPN) scaffolds incorporated with extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). We assess the osteointegration and osteoconduction abilities of these modelsin vitrousing hMSCs and MG-63 osteosarcoma cells. Additionally, we confirm exosome properties through Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), immunoblotting, and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS).In vivo, chick allantoic membrane assay investigates vascularization characteristics. The study did not includein vivoanimal experiments. Our results demonstrate that the IPN scaffold is highly porous and interconnected, potentially suitable for bone implants. EVs, approximately 100 nm in size, enhance cell survival, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and the expression of osteogenic genes. EVs-mediated IPN scaffolds demonstrate promise as precise drug carriers, enabling customized treatments for bone-related conditions and regeneration efforts. Therefore, the EVs-mediated IPN scaffolds demonstrate promise as precise carriers for the transport of drugs, allowing for customized treatments for conditions connected to bone and efforts in regeneration.