Bioactive compounds and biological functions of medicinal plant-derived extracellular vesicles

Influence of the maturity on the characteristics of orange-derived extracellular vesicles and their delivery performance for curcumin

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles have considerable potential as natural pharmaceutical and nutraceutical delivery systems. However, the impact of plant maturity on the physicochemical and structural properties of isolated extracellular vesicles is currently unknown. In this work, extracellular vesicles isolated from oranges at different maturity stages were first characterized and compared. Afterwards, polyphenol-load orange juices were successfully prepared by incorporating polyphenols (mainly curcumin) into extracellular vesicles originated from orange juices. Encapsulation in vesicles was found to increase the solubility, stability, bioaccessibility, and antioxidant activity of curcumin, but the effects depended on the maturity of oranges. Specifically, the vesicles from unripe and ripe orange juices were more effective for curcumin delivery than those from overripe orange juice. Conclusively, this study has provided important new information about the optimum maturity for isolating fruit-derived extracellular vesicles. Moreover, the extracellular vesicle-based delivery systems developed in this study may facilitate the design of more effective functional foods and beverages.

Synthesis of mPEG-functionalized betulin-based maleic derivatives and unraveling the effect of PEGylation on dental restorative resins

As a derivative of bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol A glycidyl dimethacrylate (Bis-GMA) is questioned regarding its endocrine-disrupting properties. We previously reported a plant-derived monomer, betulin-based maleic diester derivative (MABet), as a substitute for Bis-GMA, but its yellow powdery appearance greatly affected the viscosity and aesthetics of dental resins. Herein, we synthesized three novel types of mPEG-functionalized MABet (PnMABet) by leveraging the active carboxylic acid groups of MABet to undergo a DCC coupling reaction with mPEG variants with diverse repeating ethylene glycol units (n = 7, 12, and 16). Their chemical structures were validated using 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, and HR-MS. Afterwards, the PnMABet were incorporated into Bis-GMA-based resins at 10, 30, and 50 wt%. The mechanical performance was firstly evaluated to determine the optimal monomer content. The results showed that all PnMABet monomers were light-yellow liquids. Increasing their concentration from 10, 30, to 50 wt% and the number of repeating units of mPEG from 7, 12, to 16 significantly reduced the mechanical property of resins. Of all groups, 10 wt% addition of P7MABet endowed the resulting 1P7M4B5T resin with the highest flexural and compressive strength (123.2 ± 10.3 MPa; 296.6 ± 27.5 MPa) than the 5B5T control (70.0 ± 6.4 MPa; 230.5 ± 22.5 MPa). This resin also exhibited comparable viscosity, polymerization conversion, cytotoxicity to 5B5T without antibacterial activity. The developed PnMABet have the potential to modulate resin viscosity. Exploring the structure-property relationship is beneficial to realize monomer design and regulate resin properties.

Plant-Derived Nanovesicles: A Promising Frontier in Tissue Repair and Antiaging

In recent years, mammal-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been widely used in studies on tissue repair and antiaging. Their therapeutic potential lies in mediating intercellular communication through the transfer of various bioactive molecules. As research on nanovesicles progresses, plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) have attracted growing attention as a promising alternative. As an emerging cross-species regulatory "natural force", PDNVs have attracted considerable interest due to their excellent biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and remarkable therapeutic effects in tissue injury and aging-related diseases. In this review, we examine the bioactive components, drug delivery potential, and functional mechanisms of PDNVs, and we summarize recent advances in their applications for tissue repair and antiaging. In addition, we systematically discuss the major challenges and limitations hindering the clinical translation and industrialization of PDNVs, and we propose five strategic approaches along with future research directions. This review aims to promote further investigation of PDNVs in regenerative medicine and enhance their potential for clinical application.

Plant-derived nanovesicles and therapeutic application

Plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) are becoming more popular as promising therapeutic tools owing to their diversity, cost-effectiveness, and biocompatibility with very low toxicity. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the methods for isolating and characterizing PDNVs and emphasize their versatile roles in direct therapeutic applications and drug delivery systems. Their ability to effectively encapsulate and deliver large nucleic acids, proteins, and small-molecule drugs was highlighted. Moreover, advanced engineering strategies, such as surface modification and fusion with other vesicles, have been developed to enhance the therapeutic effects of PDNVs. Additionally, we describe key challenges related to this field, encouraging further research to optimize PDNVs for various clinical applications for prevention and therapeutic purposes. The distinctive properties and diverse applications of PDNVs could play a crucial role in the future of personalized medicine, fostering the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

Plant-based exosome-like extracellular vesicles as encapsulation vehicles for enhanced bioavailability and breast cancer therapy: recent advances and challenges

Breast cancer remains a common and challenging disease globally among women, prompting the need for innovative and effective therapeutic approaches. Plant-based exosomes (PBEXOs) offer a promising avenue for breast cancer treatment. Derived from plant sources, these EXOs exhibit unique properties, including biocompatibility, non-immunogenicity, and inherent bioactive compounds that make them suitable for medical applications. PBEXOs have shown potential in targeting cancer cells due to their ability to transport therapeutic substances directly to tumor sites, enhancing medication effectiveness and reducing systemic adverse effects. Their natural composition allows for modifications that improve stability, targeting capabilities, and drug-loading efficiency. The advanced isolation ensures the retention of their functional properties, which is crucial for their therapeutic applications. Characterization of these EXOs further supports their potential use in oncology. In preclinical studies, PBEXOs have been successfully loaded with various chemotherapeutic drugs, demonstrating significant anti-cancer activity. Recent studies highlight the progression of PBEXOs from experimental models to potential clinical applications, with some formulations receiving regulatory attention. However, challenges such as scalability, regulatory compliance, and a comprehensive understanding of their mechanisms remain. Addressing these issues could pave the way for PBEXOs to become a standard component in the arsenal against breast cancer, offering hope for more effective and targeted therapies.

Effects of Exosomes from Menstrual Blood-derived Stem Cells and Ginger on Endometriotic Stem Cells

OBJECTIVE

Menstrual blood-derived stem cells from endometriosis patients (E-MenSCs) have different gene expression patterns than those from healthy nonendometriotic females (NE-MenSCs). Exosomes extracted from mesenchymal stem cells and plants are considered for the treatment of various diseases. This study aimed to compare the effects of exosomes derived from NE-MenSCs (C-exos) and those from the roots of ginger (P-exos) on E-MenSCs.

METHODS

E-MenSCs at the third passage were used, and after evaluating the effective dosage with MTT, C-exos (200 µg/mL) or P-exos (100 µg/mL) were added to treat them. Following a 72-h incubation, the cells were analyzed with annexin V/PI test to evaluate the apoptosis rate. Also, genes related to inflammation (IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, NF-κB, COX2), cell cycle (Cyclin D1), the steroid pathway (ESR1), migration and invasion (MMP-2, MMP-9, VEGF), and the apoptosis pathway (BAX, BCL2) were detected by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Apoptosis was increased in both the P- and C-exos groups. The expression levels of IL-6 and IL-1β were significantly lower in the P-exos group than in the E-MenSCs group. The expression levels of IL-8, NF-κB, COX-2, and MMP-9 were significantly decreased in both the P-exos group and the C-exos group. The expression level of VEGF was significantly lower in the P-exos group than in the E-MenSCs group. The BAX/BCL2 ratio was much lower in the P-exos group than in the E-MenSCs group.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we established the feasibility of using a novel natural nontoxic material to target endometriotic mesenchymal stem cells to modify their gene expression and function toward healthy cells. Both C-exos and P-exos showed positive effects on the gene expression and function of endometriotic cells. Considering that plant exosomes are easier to access and less expensive, they can be considered for clinical use in improving the symptoms of endometriosis patients.

Gold Kiwi-Derived Nanovesicles Mitigate Ultraviolet-Induced Photoaging and Enhance Osteogenic Differentiation in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) play a crucial role in bone formation through their ability to differentiate into osteoblasts. Aging, however, detrimentally affects the differentiation and proliferation capacities of BM-MSCs, consequently impairing bone regeneration. Thus, mitigating the aging effects on BM-MSCs is vital for addressing bone-related pathologies. In this study, we demonstrate that extracellular nanovesicles isolated from gold kiwi (GK-NVs) protect human BM-MSCs from ultraviolet (UV)-induced photoaging, thereby alleviating aging-related impairments in cellular functions that are crucial for bone homeostasis. Notably, GK-NVs were efficiently taken up by BM-MSCs without causing cytotoxicity. GK-NVs reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels upon UV irradiation, restoring impaired proliferation and migration capabilities. Furthermore, GK-NVs corrected the skewed differentiation capacities of UV-irradiated BM-MSCs by enhancing osteoblast differentiation, as evidenced by the increased expression in osteoblast-specific genes and the calcium deposition, and by reducing adipocyte differentiation, as indicated by the decreased lipid droplet formation. These findings position GK-NVs as a promising biomaterial for the treatment of bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis.

Investigation of cell-to-cell transfer of polystyrene microplastics through extracellular vesicle-mediated communication

Plastics are an essential part of human life and their production is increasing every year. Plastics degrade into small particles (<5 mm, microplastics, MPs) in the environment due to various factors. MPs are widely distributed in the environment, and all living organisms are exposed to the effects of MPs. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane particles surrounded by a lipid bilayer that are released into the environment by various cell types and are highly involved in inter- and intra-cellular communication through the exchange of proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids between cells. There have been numerous reports of adverse effects associated with the accumulation of MPs in human and animal cells, with recent studies showing that plastic treatment increases the number of EVs released from cells, but the mechanisms by which MPs accumulate and move between cells remain unclear. In this study, we investigated whether polystyrene (PS)-MPs are transferred cell-to-cell via EVs. This study showed that cell-derived EVs can transport plastic particles. Furthermore, we confirmed the accumulation of PS-MPs transported by EVs within cells using a real-time imaging device. This study provides an understanding of potential EVs-mediated effects of PS-MPs on organisms and suggests directions for further research.

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.

Plant Defense Mechanisms against Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Contamination: Insights into the Role of Extracellular Vesicles

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants that pose significant environmental and health risks. These compounds originate from both natural phenomena, such as volcanic activity and wildfires, and anthropogenic sources, including vehicular emissions, industrial processes, and fossil fuel combustion. Their classification as carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic substances link them to various cancers and health disorders. PAHs are categorized into low-molecular-weight (LMW) and high-molecular-weight (HMW) groups, with HMW PAHs exhibiting greater resistance to degradation and a tendency to accumulate in sediments and biological tissues. Soil serves as a primary reservoir for PAHs, particularly in areas of high emissions, creating substantial risks through ingestion, dermal contact, and inhalation. Coastal and aquatic ecosystems are especially vulnerable due to concentrated human activities, with PAH persistence disrupting microbial communities, inhibiting plant growth, and altering ecosystem functions, potentially leading to biodiversity loss. In plants, PAH contamination manifests as a form of abiotic stress, inducing oxidative stress, cellular damage, and growth inhibition. Plants respond by activating antioxidant defenses and stress-related pathways. A notable aspect of plant defense mechanisms involves plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs), which are membrane-bound nanoparticles released by plant cells. These PDEVs play a crucial role in enhancing plant resistance to PAHs by facilitating intercellular communication and coordinating defense responses. The interaction between PAHs and PDEVs, while not fully elucidated, suggests a complex interplay of cellular defense mechanisms. PDEVs may contribute to PAH detoxification through pollutant sequestration or by delivering enzymes capable of PAH degradation. Studying PDEVs provides valuable insights into plant stress resilience mechanisms and offers potential new strategies for mitigating PAH-induced stress in plants and ecosystems.

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles as a promising anti-tumor approach: A comprehensive assessment of effectiveness, safety, and mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEs) are expected to be a compelling alternative for cancer treatment due to their low cytotoxicity, low immunogenicity, high yield, and potential anti-tumor efficacy. Despite the significant advantages of PDEs, the reliable evidence for PDEs as promising anti-tumor approach remains unsystematic and insufficient. Some challenges remain for the clinical application and large-scale industrial production of PDEs.

PURPOSE

Through systematic evaluation and meta-analysis, the objective was to provide scientific, systematic and reliable preclinical evidence to support the clinical use of PDEs in cancer therapy.

METHODS

The search for relevant literature, conducted up to March 2024, encompassed various databases including Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and the China Science and Technology Journal Database. The SYRCLE´s risk of bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality of the animal studies. For overall effect analysis and subgroup analysis, RevMan 5.4 and Stata 12.0 were utilized.

RESULTS

The analysis incorporated a total of 38 articles, comprising 29 in vivo studies and 9 in vitro studies. Meta-analysis indicated that PDEs significantly reduced cancer cell activity and induced apoptosis, reduced tumor volume and tumor weight when used as therapeutic agents, as well as exhibited synergistic anti-cancer via combination therapy. Additionally, PDEs-drugs exerted stronger inhibition of tumor volume compared to the free drug or commercial liposome-drugs. Their therapeutic effects were closely related to regulating tumor cell biological behavior and remodeling the tumor microenvironment. The safety was associated with administration route of PDEs, oral administration was currently preferred until more in-depth studies on the safety of other methods are conducted.

CONCLUSIONS

The meta-analysis revealed that PDEs have systematic and reliable preclinical evidence in preclinical studies of cancer therapy, and their efficacy and certain safety could support the clinical application of PDEs in cancer therapy. Of course, further researches are required for large-scale industrial production to meet the needs of clinical applications.

Contribution of Extracellular Particles Isolated from Morus sp. (Mulberry) Fruit to Their Reported Protective Health Benefits: An In Vitro Study

Morus sp. (mulberry) has a long tradition of use as a medicinal treatment, including for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, being shown to have antioxidant properties and to promote wound healing. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are sub-micron, membrane-enclosed particles that were first identified in mammalian bodily fluids. EV-like particles have been described in plants (PDVs) and shown to have similar characteristics to mammalian EVs. We hypothesised that some of the health benefits previously attributed to the fruit of Morus sp. could be due to the release of PDVs. We isolated PDVs from Morus nigra and Morus alba via ultracentrifugation and incubated THP-1 monocytes, differentiated THP-1 macrophages, or HMEC-1 endothelial cells with pro-oxidant compounds DMNQ (THP-1) and glucose oxidase (HMEC-1) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the presence of different fractions of mulberry EVs. Mulberry EVs augmented ROS production with DMNQ in THP-1 and caused the downregulation of ROS in HMEC-1. Mulberry EVs increased LPS-induced IL-1β secretion but reduced CCL2 and TGF-β secretion in THP-1 macrophages. In scratch wound assays, mulberry EVs inhibited HMEC-1 migration but increased proliferation in both low and high serum conditions, suggesting that they have opposing effects in these two important aspects of wound healing. One of the limitations of plant-derived therapeutics has been overcoming the low bioavailability of isolated compounds. We propose that PDVs could provide the link between physiological dose and therapeutic benefit by protecting plant active compounds in the GIT as well as potentially delivering genetic material or proteins that contribute to previously observed health benefits.