Neutrophil-derived nanovesicles deliver IL-37 to mitigate renal ischemia-reperfusion injury via endothelial cell targeting

The Potential Contribution of the IL-37/IL-18/IL-18BP/IL-18R Axis in the Pathogenesis of Sjögren's Syndrome

The objective of this study was to explore the expression profile of the Interleukin (IL)-37/IL-18/IL-18BP/IL-18R axis in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). This study included 36 patients diagnosed with pSS, 13 patients presenting with sicca symptoms without confirmed pSS, and 14 healthy controls. Serum concentrations of IL-37, IL-18, IL-18BP, and IL-18R were measured using a sandwich ELISA. These levels were then correlated with relevant clinical and biological parameters. Furthermore, expression of the same cytokines was assessed in salivary gland biopsies via immunohistochemistry. No significant difference in serum IL-37 levels was observed among the three groups (p = 0.1695). However, serum levels of IL-18 and IL-18BP were significantly elevated in pSS patients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.0001), and these levels were strongly correlated. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significantly higher expression of IL-37 in both the excretory ducts and inflammatory infiltrates of salivary glands in pSS patients compared to sicca patients. No correlation was found between IL-37 expression and the histological severity of glandular infiltration as assessed by the Chisholm score. In addition, an enhanced expression of IL-18, IL-18BP, and IL-18Rα was observed in the salivary glands of pSS patients. These findings suggest the potential contribution of the IL-37/IL-18/IL-18BP/IL-18R signaling axis in the pathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome, particularly through its increased expression in salivary glands and correlation with disease-specific inflammatory markers. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of pSS immunopathology and suggest new avenues for biomarker development or therapeutic targeting.

Physically engineered extracellular vesicles targeted delivering miR-21-5p to promote renoprotection after renal ischemia-reperfusion injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) resulting from ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common challenge in various clinical practices, yet effective therapies remain elusive. Endothelial injury plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of renal IRI. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) hold promise as cell-free therapies for treating renal IRI; however, their efficacy is limited by low delivery efficiency. In this study, we developed neutrophils (NEs) membrane-modified EVs (N-EVs) by exploiting the natural properties of NEs to target damaged endothelium. N-EVs inherited the characteristic membrane proteins of NEs along with the biological functions of EPCs-EVs. Results from in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that N-EVs significantly enhanced the targeting efficiency of EVs towards IRI kidneys via P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1). Moreover, N-EVs effectively promoted the proliferation, migration, and tube-formation abilities of injured endothelial cells (ECs) and contributed to overall renal function improvement in IRI kidneys through targeted delivery of miR-21-5p. Additionally, N-EVs could restore damaged endothelial integrity, reduce cytokine release, and inhibit leukocyte infiltration, hence alleviating renal inflammation. In conclusion, our accessible engineering approach represents a promising strategy for treating renal IRI. Furthermore, this membrane hybrid modification can be tailored and optimized for broader applications in treating other diseases.

On the design of cell membrane-coated nanoparticles to treat inflammatory conditions

Biomimetic-based drug delivery systems (DDS) attempt to recreate the complex interactions that occur naturally between cells. Cell membrane-coated nanoparticles (CMCNPs) have been one of the main strategies in this area to prevent opsonization and clearance. Moreover, coating nanoparticles with cell membranes allows them to acquire functions and properties inherent to the mother cells. In particular, cells from bloodstream show to have specific advantages depending on the cell type to be used for that application, specifically in cases of chronic inflammation. Thus, this review focuses on the biomimetic strategies that use membranes from blood cells to target and treat inflammatory conditions.

Targeted delivery of extracellular vesicles: the mechanisms, techniques and therapeutic applications

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived vesicles with a phospholipid bilayer measuring 50-150 nm in diameter with demonstrated therapeutic potentials. Limitations such as the natural biodistribution (mainly concentrated in the liver and spleen) and short plasma half-life of EVs present significant challenges to their clinical translation. In recent years, growing research indicated that engineered EVs with enhanced targeting to lesion sites have markedly promoted therapeutic efficacy. However, there is a dearth of systematic knowledge on the recent advances in engineering EVs for targeted delivery. Herein, we provide an overview of the targeting mechanisms, engineering techniques, and clinical translations of natural and engineered EVs in therapeutic applications. Enrichment of EVs at lesion sites may be achieved through the recognition of tissue markers, pathological changes, and the circumvention of mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS). Alternatively, external stimuli, including magnetic fields and ultrasound, may also be employed. EV engineering techniques that fulfill targeting functions includes genetic engineering, membrane fusion, chemical modification and physical modification. A comparative statistical analysis was conducted to elucidate the discrepancies between the diverse techniques on size, morphology, stability, targeting and therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, a summary of the registered clinical trials utilizing EVs from 2010 to 2023 has been provided, with a full discussion on the perspectives. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and techniques associated with targeted delivery of EVs in therapeutic applications to advocate further explorations of engineered EVs and accelerate their clinical applications.

Nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery in the vascular system: focus on endothelium

Endothelial cells (ECs) are pivotal in maintaining vascular health, regulating hemodynamics, and modulating inflammatory responses. Nanocarriers hold transformative potential for precise drug delivery within the vascular system, particularly targeting ECs for therapeutic purposes. However, the complex interactions between vascular ECs and nanocarriers present significant challenges for the development and clinical translation of nanotherapeutics. This review assesses recent advancements and key strategies in employing nanocarriers for drug delivery to vascular ECs. It suggested that through precise physicochemical design and surface modifications, nanocarriers can enhance targeting specificity and improve drug internalization efficiency in ECs. Additionally, we elaborated on the applications of nanocarriers specifically designed for targeting ECs in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, cancer metastasis, and inflammatory disorders. Despite these advancements, safety concerns, the complexity of in vivo processes, and the challenge of achieving subcellular drug delivery remain significant obstacles to the effective targeting of ECs with nanocarriers. A comprehensive understanding of endothelial cell biology and its interaction with nanocarriers is crucial for realizing the full potential of targeted drug delivery systems.

Applications of plant-derived extracellular vesicles in medicine

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising therapeutic agents owing to their natural abundance, accessibility, and unique biological properties. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the therapeutic potential of plant-derived EVs and emphasizes their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tumor-inhibitory effects. Here, we discussed the advancements in isolation and purification techniques, such as ultracentrifugation and size-exclusion chromatography, which are critical for maintaining the functional integrity of these nanovesicles. Next, we investigated the diverse administration routes of EVs and carefully weighed their respective advantages and challenges related to bioavailability and patient compliance. Moreover, we elucidated the multifaceted mechanisms of action of plant-derived EVs, including their roles in anti-inflammation, antioxidation, antitumor activity, and modulation of gut microbiota. We also discussed the impact of EVs on specific diseases such as cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, highlighting the importance of addressing current challenges related to production scalability, regulatory compliance, and immunogenicity. Finally, we proposed future research directions for optimizing EV extraction and developing targeted delivery systems. Through these efforts, we envision the seamless integration of plant-derived EVs into mainstream medicine, offering safe and potent therapeutic alternatives across various medical disciplines.

Frontier role of extracellular vesicles in kidney disease

Kidney diseases represent a diverse range of conditions that compromise renal function and structure which characterized by a progressive deterioration of kidney function, may ultimately necessitate dialysis or kidney transplantation as end-stage treatment options. This review explores the complex landscape of kidney diseases, highlighting the limitations of existing treatments and the pressing need for innovative strategies. The paper delves into the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as emerging biomarkers and therapeutic agents in the context of kidney pathophysiology. Urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs), in particular, offer a non-invasive means of assessing renal injury and monitoring disease progression. Additionally, mesenchymal stem cell-derived EVs (MSC-EVs) are examined for their immunomodulatory and tissue repair capabilities, presenting a promising avenue for novel therapeutic interventions. And discusses the potential of engineering EVs to enhance their targeting and therapeutic efficacy. This paper systematically integrates the latest research findings and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of EVs in kidney disease, providing cutting-edge insights into their potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool.