Exosomes in the Regulation of Vascular Endothelial Cell Regeneration

Glycoside components promote endothelial progenitor cell-derived exosomes repairing damaged vascular endothelium via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

This paper investigated the effects of three glycosides-astragaloside IV, amygdalin, and paeoniflorin (AAP)-derived from Buyang Huanwu Decoction combined with endothelial progenitor cell-derived exosomes (EPC-Exo), on vascular endothelial repair in rats following balloon-induced injury, with specific focus on the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

METHODS

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) were isolated, cultured, and identified using immunofluorescence, with EPC-Exo being validated through Western blotting (WB), transmission electron microscopy, and particle size analysis. A rat model of endothelial injury was established using a HFD and carotid artery balloon injury (CABI). The rats were subsequently treated with AAP and/or EPC-Exo. Vascular repair was evaluated using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, ELISA, immunofluorescence, and WB. In vitro, endothelial cell injury was induced, and treatment effects were analyzed using CCK-8, scratch assays, tube formation assays, immunofluorescence, and WB. The involvement of the PI3K/AKT pathway was verified using the PI3K inhibitor LY294002.

RESULTS

The combination of AAP and EPC-Exo significantly reduced intimal hyperplasia, improved endothelial function, and promoted angiogenesis. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses demonstrated strong interactions between AAP and PI3K/AKT-related proteins. By enhancing the uptake of EPC-Exo by vascular endothelial cells (VEC), AAP promoted proliferation, migration, and tube formation in vitro while reducing Cleaved-caspase 3 expression. This combination also increased activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The PI3K inhibitor weakened these effects, verifying the pathway's involvement in vascular repair.

CONCLUSION

The combination of AAP and EPC-Exo synergistically promotes vascular endothelial repair and angiogenesis, partly by enhancing EPC-Exo uptake through activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Extracellular vesicles as the common denominator among the 7 Rs of radiobiology: From the cellular level to clinical practice

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid-bound particles released by tumor cells and widely explored in cancer development, progression, and treatment response, being considered as valuable components to be explored as biomarkers or cellular targets to modulate the effect of therapies. The mechanisms underlying the production and profile of EVs during radiotherapy (RT) require addressing radiobiological aspects to determine cellular responses to specific radiation doses and fractionation. In this review, we explore the role of EVs in the 7 Rs of radiobiology, known as the molecular basis of a biological tissue response to radiation, supporting EVs as a shared player in all the seven processes. We also highlight the relevance of EVs in the context of liquid biopsy and resistance to immunotherapy, aiming to establish the connection and utility of EVs as tools in contemporary and precision radiotherapy.

Development of non-viral targeted RNA delivery vehicles - a key factor in success of therapeutic RNA

Decade-long efforts in medicinal biotechnology have enabled large-scale in-vitro production of optimised therapeutic RNA constructs for stable in-vivo delivery and modify the expression of disease-related genes. The success of lipid nanoparticle-formulated mRNA vaccines against Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-Cov2) has opened a new era of RNA therapeutics and non-viral drug delivery systems. The major limiting factor in the clinical translation of RNA-based drugs is the availability of suitable delivery vehicles that can protect RNA payloads from degradation, offer controlled release, and pose minimal inherent toxicity. Unwanted immune response, payload size constraints, genome integration, and non-specific tissue targeting limit the application of conventional viral drug-delivery vehicles. This review summarises current research on nano-sized drug carriers, including lipid nanoparticles, polymer-based formulations, cationic nanoemulsion, and cell-penetrating peptides, for targeted therapeutic RNA delivery. Further, this paper highlights the biomimetic approaches (i.e. mimicking naturally occurring bio-compositions, molecular designs, and systems), including virus-like particles (VLPs), exosomes, and selective endogenous eNcapsidation (SEND) technology being explored as safer and more efficient alternatives.

Exosomes and breast cancer angiogenesis; Highlights in intercellular communication

Breast cancer (BC) is a prevalent and highly lethal cancer in females. Like other cancer types, the intricate cellular and molecular heterogeneity leads to the variation of therapeutic outcomes. The development and progression of blood vessels increase the tumor cell expansion and metastasis to remote sites. Based on several pieces of scientific data, different mediators and cells are involved in the promotion of angiogenesis into the tumor parenchyma. Recent data have indicated the critical role of extracellular vesicles, especially exosomes (Exos), in the transfer of angiogenesis molecules between the BC cells. Due to unique physicochemical properties, and the transfer of certain signaling molecules, Exos are at the center of attention in terms of biomarkers and therapeutic bullets in cancer patients. Along with these statements, understanding the modulatory role of Exos in BC angiogenesis seems critical in the clinical setting. Here, the mechanisms by which BC cells can orchestrate the angiogenesis phenomenon via Exos are discussed in detail. The present study can help us to understand the pro-/anti-angiogenesis role of Exos in BC and to design better oncostatic strategies.

Advances in the study of exosomes in cardiovascular diseases

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been the leading cause of death worldwide for many years. In recent years, exosomes have gained extensive attention in the cardiovascular system due to their excellent biocompatibility. Studies have extensively researched miRNAs in exosomes and found that they play critical roles in various physiological and pathological processes in the cardiovascular system. These processes include promoting or inhibiting inflammatory responses, promoting angiogenesis, participating in cell proliferation and migration, and promoting pathological progression such as fibrosis.

AIM OF REVIEW

This systematic review examines the role of exosomes in various cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, ischemia-reperfusion injury, heart failure and cardiomyopathy. It also presents the latest treatment and prevention methods utilizing exosomes. The study aims to provide new insights and approaches for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases by exploring the relationship between exosomes and these conditions. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the potential clinical use of exosomes as biomarkers for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles surrounded by lipid bilayers that are secreted by most cells in the body. They are heterogeneous, varying in size and composition, with a diameter typically ranging from 40 to 160 nm. Exosomes serve as a means of information communication between cells, carrying various biologically active substances, including lipids, proteins, and small RNAs such as miRNAs and lncRNAs. As a result, they participate in both physiological and pathological processes within the body.

Exploring the potential of the convergence between extracellular vesicles and CAR technology as a novel immunotherapy approach

Cancer therapy is a dynamically evolving field, witnessing the emergence of innovative approaches that offer a promising outlook for patients grappling with persistent disease. Within the realm of therapeutic exploration, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells as well as CAR NK cells, have surfaced as novel approaches, each possessing unique attributes and transformative potential. Immune cells engineered to express CARs recognizing tumour-specific antigens, have shown remarkable promise in treating terminal cancers by combining the precision of antibody specificity with the potent cytotoxic function of T cells. However, their application in solid tumours is still in its nascent stages, presenting unique major challenges. On the same note, CAR NK cells offer a distinct immunotherapeutic approach, utilizing CARs on NK cells, providing advantages in safety, manufacturing simplicity, and a broader scope for cancer treatment. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as promising therapeutic agents due to their ability to carry crucial biomarkers and biologically active molecules, serving as vital messengers in the intercellular communication network. In the context of cancer, the therapeutic potential of EVs lies in delivering tumour-suppressing proteins, nucleic acid components, or targeting drugs with precision, thereby redefining the paradigm of precision medicine. The fusion of CAR technology with the capabilities of EVs has given rise to a new therapeutic frontier. CAR T EVs and CAR NK EVs, leveraging the power of EVs, have the potential to alleviate challenges associated with live-cell therapies. EVs are suggested to reduce the side effects linked to CAR T cell therapy and hold the potential to revolutionize the penetrance in solid tumours. EVs act as carriers of pro-apoptotic molecules and RNA components, enhancing immune responses and thereby expanding their therapeutic potential. In this review article, we navigate dynamic landscapes, with our objective being to evaluate comparative efficacy, safety profiles, manufacturing complexities, and clinical applicability.

Regenerative endodontic therapy: From laboratory bench to clinical practice

BACKGROUND

Maintaining the vitality and functionality of dental pulp is paramount for tooth integrity, longevity, and homeostasis. Aiming to treat irreversible pulpitis and necrosis, there has been a paradigm shift from conventional root canal treatment towards regenerative endodontic therapy.

AIM OF REVIEW

This extensive and multipart review presents crucial laboratory and practical issues related to pulp-dentin complex regeneration aimed towards advancing clinical translation of regenerative endodontic therapy and enhancing human life quality.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

In this multipart review paper, we first present a panorama of emerging potential tissue engineering strategies for pulp-dentin complex regeneration from cell transplantation and cell homing perspectives, emphasizing the critical regenerative components of stem cells, biomaterials, and conducive microenvironments. Then, this review provides details about current clinically practiced pulp regenerative/reparative approaches, including direct pulp capping and root revascularization, with a specific focus on the remaining hurdles and bright prospects in developing such therapies. Next, special attention was devoted to discussing the innovative biomimetic perspectives opened in establishing functional tissues by employing exosomes and cell aggregates, which will benefit the clinical translation of dental pulp engineering protocols. Finally, we summarize careful consideration that should be given to basic research and clinical applications of regenerative endodontics. In particular, this review article highlights significant challenges associated with residual infection and inflammation and identifies future insightful directions in creating antibacterial and immunomodulatory microenvironments so that clinicians and researchers can comprehensively understand crucial clinical aspects of regenerative endodontic procedures.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes overexpressing SRC-3 protect mice from cerebral ischemia by inhibiting ferroptosis

BACKGROUND

The treatment for cerebral ischemia remains limited, and new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. Exosome has shown great promise for the treatment of cerebral ischemia. Steroid receptor coactivator-3 (SRC-3) was reported to be involved in neurological performances. In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes overexpressing SRC-3 on cerebral ischemia in mice.

METHODS

The mice were treated with an intracerebroventricular injection of GFP-overexpressed exosomes (GFP-exo) and SRC-3-overexpressed exosomes (SRC3-exo) in a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model of cerebral ischemia.

RESULTS

The results showed that SRC3-exo treatment significantly inhibited lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis of the neurons subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation. It further suppressed the activation of microglia and astrocytes, and decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brains of MCAO mice. Furthermore, SRC3-exo treatment reduced the water content of brain tissue and infarct size, which alleviated the neurological damage and improved neurological performances in the MCAO mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that MSC-derived exosomes expressing SRC3 can be a therapeutic strategy for cerebral ischemia by inhibiting ferroptosis.

Brain microvascular endothelial cell-derived exosomes transmitting circ_0000495 promote microglial M1-polarization and endothelial cell injury under hypoxia condition

Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMVECs) and microglia play critical roles in regulating cerebral homeostasis during ischemic stroke. However, the role of HBMVECs-derived exosomes in microglia polarization after stroke remains unknown. We isolated exosomes (Exos) from oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD)-exposed HBMVECs, before added them into microglia. Microglia polarization markers were tested using RT-qPCR or flow cytometry. Inflammatory cytokines were measured with ELISA. Endothelial cell damage was assessed by cell viability, apoptosis, apoptosis-related proteins, oxidative stress, and angiogenic activity using CCK-8, flow cytometry, western blot, ELISA, and endothelial tube formation assay, respectively. We also established middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mice model to examine the function of circ_0000495 on stroke in vivo. Our study found that HBMVECs-Exos reduced M2 markers (IL-10, CD163, and CD206), increased M1 markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-12), CD86-positive cells, and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β), indicating the promotion of microglial M1-polarization. Microglial M1-polarization induced by HBMVECs-Exos reduced viability and promoted apoptosis and oxidative stress, revealing the aggravation of endothelial cell damage. However, circ_0000495 silencing inhibited HBMVECs-Exos-induced alterations. Mechanistically, circ_0000495 adsorbed miR-579-3p to upregulate toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in microglia; miR-579-3p suppressed HBMVECs-Exos-induced alterations via declining TLR4; furthermore, Yin Yang 1 (YY1) transcriptionally activated circ_0000495 in HBMVECs. Importantly, circ_0000495 aggravated ischemic brain injury in vivo via activating TLR4/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. Collectively, OGD-treated HBMVECs-Exos transmitted circ_0000495 to regulate miR-579-3p/TLR4/NF-κB axis in microglia, thereby facilitating microglial M1-polarization and endothelial cell damage.

Saikosaponin-d regulates angiogenesis in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis through angiopoietin/Tie-2 pathway

OBJECTIVE

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is considered as a chronic interstitial lung disease with underlying mechanism of IPF remaining unclear, while there are no definitive treatment options. In recent years, scientists have gradually paid attention to the influence of angiogenesis on IPF. Because IPF is a progressive with microvascular remodeling disorder, scientists have postulated that angiogenesis may also be one of the initiating and contributing factors of the disease. Bupleurum is a common natural Chinese herbal medicine with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and other pharmacological effects. As the most important active monomer of Bupleurum, Saikosaponin-d (SSd) is a new discovery with anti-pulmonary fibrosis (PF) activity. This study attempts to investigate the role of SSd in the interference of PF through regulation of angiogenesis in IPF through Angiopoietin (Angpt) /Tie receptor 2 (Tie2) pathway.

METHODS

Randomly, we allocated C57BL/6 mice into four groups (n = 20 in each group). Afterwards, establishment of IPF model was accomplished via intratracheal administration of bleomycin (BLM, 5 mg/kg), while corresponding drug intervention was given accordingly. On 3rd, 7th, 14th and 28th days after modeling, we performed histopathological examination through staining. Meanwhile, immunohistochemistry (IHC) of PF and the expression of related factors were observed, while Ang/Tie2 pathway was assessed by ELISA with the effect of SSd on angiogenesis related proteins in IPF being explored with IHC and Western Blot technique.

RESULTS

Our results showed that SSd could reduce inflammation and PF levels in lung tissue of experimental mice, while levels of angiogenesis-related factors, namely Tie-2, Ang-1 and ANGPT2 (Ang-2), fibrosis- associated factors like Alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen-I and hydroxyproline in SSd and dexamethasone (DXM) mice were significantly reduced at each time point compared to BLM (p < 0.01). Additionally, we discovered substantial decreased expressions of Ang-1, Ang-2, Tie-2, α-SMA and collagen-I at protein level in SSd and DXM mice at each time point compared to BLM (p < 0.05). Besides, insignificant differences were observed between SSd and DXM groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated that SSd could down-regulate the expression of ANG-1, Ang-2 and Tie2 in the Ang/Tie2 pathway, and may reduce lung inflammation and PF in BLM-induced mice via inhibition of angiogenesis.

Extracellular vesicles targeting tumor microenvironment in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a prevalent neoplastic condition affecting women. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), nano-sized membrane vesicles, are secreted by various cells in both physiological and pathological states. The profound interplay between EVs and the tumor microenvironment (TME) in ovarian cancer is crucial. In this review, we explores the pivotal role of EVs in facilitating intercellular communication between cancer cells and the TME, emphasizing the potential of EVs as promising diagnostic markers and innovative therapeutic targets for ovarian cancer. The comprehensive analysis outlines the specific mechanisms by which EVs engage in communication with the constituents of the TME, including the modulation of tumor growth through EVs carrying matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and EV-mediated inhibition of angiogenesis, among other factors. Additionally, the we discuss the potential clinical applications of EVs that target the TME in ovarian cancer, encompassing the establishment of novel treatment strategies and the identification of novel biomarkers for early detection and prognosis. Finally, this review identifies novel strategies for therapeutic interventions, such as utilizing EVs as carriers for drug delivery and targeting specific EV-mediated signaling pathways. In summary, this manuscript offers valuable insights into the role of EVs in ovarian cancer and highlights the significance of comprehending intercellular communication in the realm of cancer biology.

Impact of Immunity on Coronary Artery Disease: An Updated Pathogenic Interplay and Potential Therapeutic Strategies

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. It is a result of the buildup of atherosclerosis within the coronary arteries. The role of the immune system in CAD is complex and multifaceted. The immune system responds to damage or injury to the arterial walls by initiating an inflammatory response. However, this inflammatory response can become chronic and lead to plaque formation. Neutrophiles, macrophages, B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and NKT cells play a key role in immunity response, both with proatherogenic and antiatherogenic signaling pathways. Recent findings provide new roles and activities referring to endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells, which help to clarify the intricate signaling crosstalk between the involved actors. Research is ongoing to explore immunomodulatory therapies that target the immune system to reduce inflammation and its contribution to atherosclerosis. This review aims to summarize the pathogenic interplay between immunity and CAD and the potential therapeutic strategies, and explore immunomodulatory therapies that target the immune system to reduce inflammation and its contribution to atherosclerosis.

New Gene Markers of Exosomal Regulation Are Involved in Porcine Granulosa Cell Adhesion, Migration, and Proliferation

Exosomal regulation is intimately involved in key cellular processes, such as migration, proliferation, and adhesion. By participating in the regulation of basic mechanisms, extracellular vesicles are important in intercellular signaling and the functioning of the mammalian reproductive system. The complexity of intercellular interactions in the ovarian follicle is also based on multilevel intercellular signaling, including the mechanisms involving cadherins, integrins, and the extracellular matrix. The processes in the ovary leading to the formation of a fertilization-ready oocyte are extremely complex at the molecular level and depend on the oocyte's ongoing relationship with granulosa cells. An analysis of gene expression from material obtained from a primary in vitro culture of porcine granulosa cells was employed using microarray technology. Genes with the highest expression (LIPG, HSD3B1, CLIP4, LOX, ANKRD1, FMOD, SHAS2, TAGLN, ITGA8, MXRA5, and NEXN) and the lowest expression levels (DAPL1, HSD17B1, SNX31, FST, NEBL, CXCL10, RGS2, MAL2, IHH, and TRIB2) were selected for further analysis. The gene expression results obtained from the microarrays were validated using quantitative RT-qPCR. Exosomes may play important roles regarding intercellular signaling between granulosa cells. Therefore, exosomes may have significant applications in regenerative medicine, targeted therapy, and assisted reproduction technologies.

Physiological and pathological consequences of exosomes at the blood-brain-barrier interface

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) interface with multicellular structure controls strictly the entry of varied circulating macromolecules from the blood-facing surface into the brain parenchyma. Under several pathological conditions within the central nervous system, the integrity of the BBB interface is disrupted due to the abnormal crosstalk between the cellular constituents and the recruitment of inflammatory cells. Exosomes (Exos) are nano-sized extracellular vesicles with diverse therapeutic outcomes. These particles transfer a plethora of signaling molecules with the potential to modulate target cell behavior in a paracrine manner. Here, in the current review article, the therapeutic properties of Exos and their potential in the alleviation of compromised BBB structure were discussed. Video Abstract.

Strategies to counteract adverse remodeling of vascular graft: A 3D view of current graft innovations

Vascular grafts are widely used for vascular surgeries, to bypass a diseased artery or function as a vascular access for hemodialysis. Bioengineered or tissue-engineered vascular grafts have long been envisioned to take the place of bioinert synthetic grafts and even vein grafts under certain clinical circumstances. However, host responses to a graft device induce adverse remodeling, to varied degrees depending on the graft property and host's developmental and health conditions. This in turn leads to invention or failure. Herein, we have mapped out the relationship between the design constraints and outcomes for vascular grafts, by analyzing impairment factors involved in the adverse graft remodeling. Strategies to tackle these impairment factors and counteract adverse healing are then summarized by outlining the research landscape of graft innovations in three dimensions-cell technology, scaffold technology and graft translation. Such a comprehensive view of cell and scaffold technological innovations in the translational context may benefit the future advancements in vascular grafts. From this perspective, we conclude the review with recommendations for future design endeavors.

Role of extracellular vesicles in cancer-specific interactions between tumour cells and the vasculature

Cancer progression impacts and exploits the vascular system in several highly consequential ways. Among different types of vascular cells, blood cells and mediators that are engaged in these processes, endothelial cells are at the centre of the underlying circuitry, as crucial constituents of angiogenesis, angiocrine stimulation, non-angiogenic vascular growth, interactions with the coagulation system and other responses. Tumour-vascular interactions involve soluble factors, extracellular matrix molecules, cell-cell contacts, as well as extracellular vesicles (EVs) carrying assemblies of molecular effectors. Oncogenic mutations and transforming changes in the cancer cell genome, epigenome and signalling circuitry exert important and often cancer-specific influences upon pathways of tumour-vascular interactions, including the biogenesis, content, and biological activity of EVs and responses of cancer cells to them. Notably, EVs may carry and transfer bioactive, oncogenic macromolecules (oncoproteins, RNA, DNA) between tumour and vascular cells and thereby elicit unique functional changes and forms of vascular growth and remodeling. Cancer EVs influence the state of the vasculature both locally and systemically, as exemplified by cancer-associated thrombosis. EV-mediated communication pathways represent attractive targets for therapies aiming at modulation of the tumour-vascular interface (beyond angiogenesis) and could also be exploited for diagnostic purposes in cancer.

Recommendation: Treatment of clinical long COVID encephalopathies with nasal administered mesenchymal stromal cell extracellular vesicles

We propose therapy with extracellular vesicles (EVs) for dominant central nervous system aspects of chronic Long COVID Syndromes (LCS). These clinical conditions have a delayed onset of 1–3 months following the cessation of active SARS-CoV-2 virus infections that cause an acute disease called COVID-19. The therapy of LCS will be achieved by direct access to the central nervous system (CNS) by nasal administration of small EVs derived from Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSC). When administered nasally, they target CNS microglia and endothelia involved in LCS encephalopathy, as indicated by experimental animal models and human autopsy and spinal fluid studies. Underlying this approach is the discovery that MSC-sEV treatment for healing neuro injury targets, microglia, and macrophages that then likely release secondary trophic EVs that affect the local capillary endothelial cells to restore vascular integrity. It is postulated that the pathways of endothelial and neural pathologies in acute SARS-CoV-2 virus infections may carry over to produce underlying vascular and neurological defects mediating LCS that are susceptible to this proposed nasal therapy with MSC-sEVs.

Cancer Stem Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment: Targeting the Critical Crosstalk through Nanocarrier Systems

The physiological state of the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a central role in cancer development due to multiple universal features that transcend heterogeneity and niche specifications, like promoting cancer progression and metastasis. As a result of their preponderant involvement in tumor growth and maintenance through several microsystemic alterations, including hypoxia, oxidative stress, and acidosis, TMEs make for ideal targets in both diagnostic and therapeutic ventures. Correspondingly, methodologies to target TMEs have been investigated this past decade as stratagems of significant potential in the genre of focused cancer treatment. Within targeted oncotherapy, nanomedical derivates-nanocarriers (NCs) especially-have emerged to present notable prospects in enhancing targeting specificity. Yet, one major issue in the application of NCs in microenvironmental directed therapy is that TMEs are too broad a spectrum of targeting possibilities for these carriers to be effectively employed. However, cancer stem cells (CSCs) might portend a solution to the above conundrum: aside from being quite heavily invested in tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance, CSCs also show self-renewal and fluid clonogenic properties that often define specific TME niches. Further scrutiny of the relationship between CSCs and TMEs also points towards mechanisms that underly tumoral characteristics of metastasis, malignancy, and even resistance. This review summarizes recent advances in NC-enabled targeting of CSCs for more holistic strikes against TMEs and discusses both the current challenges that hinder the clinical application of these strategies as well as the avenues that can further CSC-targeting initiatives. Central role of CSCs in regulation of cellular components within the TME.

Angiocrine extracellular vesicles impose mesenchymal reprogramming upon proneural glioma stem cells

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an incurable form of primary astrocytic brain tumor driven by glioma stem cell (GSC) compartment closely associated with the vascular niche. GSC phenotypes are heterogeneous and range from proneural to mesenchymal-like, the latter characterised by greater invasiveness. Here we document the secretory (angiocrine) role of endothelial cells and their derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) as drivers of proneural-to-mesenchymal reprogramming of GSCs. These changes involve activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and NFκB, and inactivation of NOTCH, while altering responsiveness to chemotherapy and driving infiltrative growth in the brain. Our findings suggest that EV-mediated angiocrine interactions impact the nature of cellular stemness in GBM with implications for disease biology and therapy.

Tumor endothelial cell-derived extracellular vesicles contribute to tumor microenvironment remodeling

Cancer progression involves several biological steps where angiogenesis is a key tumorigenic phenomenon. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from tumor cells and other cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) help modulate and maintain favorable microenvironments for tumors. Endothelial cells (ECs) activated by cancer-derived EVs have important roles in tumor angiogenesis. Interestingly, EVs from ECs activate tumor cells, i.e. extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and provide more supplements for tumor cells. Thus, EV communications between cancer cells and ECs may be effective therapeutic targets for controlling cancer progression. In this review, we describe the current knowledge on EVs derived from ECs and we examine how these EVs affect TME remodeling.

Autophagy at the interface of endothelial cell homeostasis and vascular disease

Autophagy is an essential intracellular process for cellular quality control. It enables cell homeostasis through the selective degradation of harmful protein aggregates and damaged organelles. Autophagy is essential for recycling nutrients, generating energy to maintain cell viability in most tissues and during adverse conditions such as hypoxia/ischaemia. The progressive understanding of the mechanisms modulating autophagy in the vasculature has recently led numerous studies to link intact autophagic responses with endothelial cell (EC) homeostasis and function. Preserved autophagic flux within the ECs has an essential role in maintaining their physiological characteristics, whereas defective autophagy can promote endothelial pro-inflammatory and atherogenic phenotype. However, we still lack a good knowledge of the complete molecular repertoire controlling various aspects of endothelial autophagy and how this is associated with vascular diseases. Here, we provide an overview of the current state of the art of autophagy in ECs. We review the discoveries that have so far defined autophagy as an essential mechanism in vascular biology and analyse how autophagy influences ECs behaviour in vascular disease. Finally, we emphasise opportunities for compounds to regulate autophagy in ECs and discuss the challenges of exploiting them to resolve vascular disease.

Exosomes Derived From Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Novel Effects in the Treatment of Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke is defined as an infarction in the brain, caused by impaired cerebral blood supply, leading to local brain tissue ischemia, hypoxic necrosis, and corresponding neurological deficits. At present, revascularization strategies in patients with acute ischemic stroke include intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical endovascular treatment. However, due to the short treatment time window (<4.5 h) and method restrictions, clinical research is focused on new methods to treat ischemic stroke. Exosomes are nano-sized biovesicles produced in the endosomal compartment of most eukaryotic cells, containing DNA, complex RNA, and protein (30-150 nm). They are released into surrounding extracellular fluid upon fusion between multivesicular bodies and the plasma membrane. Exosomes have the characteristics of low immunogenicity, good innate stability, high transmission efficiency, and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, making them potential therapeutic modalities for the treatment of ischemic stroke. The seed sequence of miRNA secreted by exosomes is base-paired with complementary mRNA to improve the microenvironment of ischemic tissue, thereby regulating downstream signal transduction activities. With exosome research still in the theoretical and experimental stages, this review aims to shed light on the potential of exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of ischemic stroke.

Integration of Metabolomics and Proteomics in Exploring the Endothelial Dysfunction Mechanism Induced by Serum Exosomes From Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Nephropathy Patients

Background

The prevalence of diabetic microvascular diseases has increased significantly worldwide, the most common of which are diabetic nephropathy (DN) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Microvascular endothelial cells are thought to be major targets of hyperglycemic damage, while the underlying mechanism of diffuse endothelial dysfunction in multiple organs needs to be further investigated.

Aim

The aim of this study is to explore the endothelial dysfunction mechanisms of serum exosomes (SExos) extracted from DR and DN (DRDN) patients.

Methods

In this study, human glomerular endothelial cells (HGECs) were used as the cell model. Metabolomics ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) and proteomics tandem mass tag (TMT)-based liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) together with bioinformatics, the correlation analysis, and the joint pathway analysis were employed to discover the underlying mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction caused by patient's SExos.

Results

It can be assumed that serum exosomes extracted by DRDN patients might cause endothelial dysfunction mainly by upregulating alpha subunit of the coagulation factor fibrinogen (FIBA) and downregulating 1-methylhistidine (1-MH). Bioinformatics analysis pointed to an important role in reducing excess cysteine and methionine metabolism.

Conclusion

FIBA overexpression and 1-MH loss may be linked to the pathogenicity of diabetic endothelial dysfunction in DR/DN, implying that a cohort study is needed to further investigate the role of FIBA and 1-MH in the development of DN and DR, as well as the related pathways between the two proteins.

Applying Principles of Regenerative Medicine to Vascular Stent Development

Stents are a widely-used device to treat a variety of cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of this review is to explore the application of regenerative medicine principles into current and future stent designs. This review will cover regeneration-relevant approaches emerging in the current research landscape of stent technology. Regenerative stent technologies include surface engineering of stents with cell secretomes, cell-capture coatings, mimics of endothelial products, surface topography, endothelial growth factors or cell-adhesive peptides, as well as design of bioresorable materials for temporary stent support. These technologies are comparatively analyzed in terms of their regenerative effects, therapeutic effects and challenges faced; their benefits and risks are weighed up for suggestions about future stent developments. This review highlights two unique regenerative features of stent technologies: selective regeneration, which is to selectively grow endothelial cells on a stent but inhibit the proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells, and stent-assisted regeneration of ischemic tissue injury.

Lipopolysaccharide increases exosomes secretion from endothelial progenitor cells by toll-like receptor 4 dependent mechanism

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can exert angiogenic effects by a paracrine mechanism, where exosomes work as an important mediator. Recent studies reported functional expression of toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 on human EPCs and dose-dependent effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on EPC angiogenic properties. To study on the effects of TLR4/LPS signaling on EPC-derived exosomes (Exo) and involved mechanisms, we investigated the effect of LPS on exosomes secretion from human EPC and tested Exo functions by senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity assay and reactive oxygen species (ROS) related H₂ DCF-DA assay. To clarify the mechanism, we examined the changes in intracellular calcium levels and multivesicular bodies (MVBs) development in EPC. We employed the inhibitors of the plasma membrane Ca ²⁺ -ATPase (PMCA), endoplasmic reticulum Ca ²⁺ -ATPase (ERCA), PLC-IP₃ pathway and store-operated calcium entry to assess the effects of LPS on calcium signalings which critical for exosome secretion. LPS induced the release of Exo in a TLR4-dependent manner in vitro, which effect can be partly abrogated by the membrane-permeable IP ₃ R antagonist, 2-aminoethyl diphenylborinate (2-APB), but not PLC inhibitor, U-73122. The LPS can significantly delay the fallback of [Ca ²⁺ ]_i after isolating the cellular PMCA activity, and disturb PMCA 1/4 expression. The distribution of elevated intracellular calcium seemed coincident with the development of MVBs. Furthermore, the LPS-induced Exo maintained valid anti-oxidation/senescence properties. The PMCA and ER Ca ²⁺ release mechanism may contribute to the pro-exosomal effects of LPS on EPC, which is valuable for potential pro-regenerative application in future. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Adult Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells on 3D Silk Fibroin Nonwovens Release Exosomes Enriched in Angiogenic and Growth-Promoting Factors

BACKGROUND

Our earlier works showed the quick vascularization of mouse skin grafted Bombyx mori 3D silk fibroin nonwoven scaffolds (3D-SFnws) and the release of exosomes enriched in angiogenic/growth factors (AGFs) from in vitro 3D-SFnws-stuck human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Here, we explored whether coronary artery adult human smooth muscle cells (AHSMCs) also release AGFs-enriched exosomes when cultured on 3D-SFnws in vitro.

METHODS

Media with exosome-depleted FBS served for AHSMCs and human endothelial cells (HECs) cultures on 3D-SFnws or polystyrene. Biochemical methods and double-antibody arrays assessed cell growth, metabolism, and intracellular TGF-β and NF-κB signalling pathways activation. AGFs conveyed by CD9+/CD81+ exosomes released from AHSMCs were double-antibody array analysed and their angiogenic power evaluated on HECs in vitro.

RESULTS

AHSMCs grew and consumed D-glucose more intensely and showed a stronger phosphorylation/activation of TAK-1, SMAD-1/-2/-4/-5, ATF-2, c-JUN, ATM, CREB, and an IκBα phosphorylation/inactivation on SFnws vs. polystyrene, consistent overall with a proliferative/secretory phenotype. SFnws-stuck AHSMCs also released exosomes richer in IL-1α/-2/-4/-6/-8; bFGF; GM-CSF; and GRO-α/-β/-γ, which strongly stimulated HECs' growth, migration, and tubes/nodes assembly in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Altogether, the intensified AGFs exosomal release from 3D-SFnws-attached AHSMCs and HDFs could advance grafts' colonization, vascularization, and take in vivo-noteworthy assets for prospective clinical applications.

Exosome-Based Treatment for Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease in which lipids accumulate on the walls of blood vessels, thickening and clogging these vessels. It is well known that cell-to-cell communication is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that deliver various substances (e.g., RNA, DNA, and proteins) from the donor cell to the recipient cell and that play an important role in intercellular communication. Atherosclerosis can be either induced or inhibited through cell-to-cell communication using exosomes. An understanding of the function of exosomes as therapeutic tools and in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis is necessary to develop new atherosclerosis therapies. In this review, we summarize the studies on the regulation of atherosclerosis through exosomes derived from multiple cells as well as research on exosome-based atherosclerosis treatment.

Current theranostic approaches for metastatic cancers through hypoxia-induced exosomal packaged cargo

Tumour cells exhibit numerous defence mechanisms against various therapeutic strategies and help in developing drug resistance. These defence strategies help cancer cells prevent their elimination from an organism and prosper at a specific location. In recent times it's been observed that there is a significant contribution of secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs) from such tumorigenic sites in the development and prognosis of cancer. Amongst the various types of EVs, exosomes behave like biological carriers, play a crucial role in transporting the content between different cells, and had such an underrated defence mode by getting induced due to the hypoxia secreted highly specialised double-membrane structures. These small structure vesicles play a critical part in regulating local microenvironment and intracellular communications, cited by many research studies. Exosomes are a potential carrier of several cargo biomolecules like proteins, lipids, miRNAs, mRNAs etc., facilitating better communication within the microenvironment of cancer cells, enhancing the metastatic rate along with cancer progression. Several studies have extensively researched elucidating exosomes mediated radiation-induced bystander effects: multidrug resistance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and help cancer cells escape from the immune system apart from playing a critical role in angiogenesis too. Due to its natural tendency to carry different biomolecules, it can also be used to haul chemical drugs and efficiently deliver the drug molecules to the targeted site of cancer. The current review aims to explore the vivid role of hypoxia-induced exosomes in tumour progression along with its application and challenges in cancer therapeutics.

Exosomes, a New Star for Targeted Delivery

Exosomes are cell-secreted nanoparticles (generally with a size of 30–150 nm) bearing numerous biological molecules including nucleic acids, proteins and lipids, which are thought to play important roles in intercellular communication. As carriers, exosomes hold promise as advanced platforms for targeted drug/gene delivery, owing to their unique properties, such as innate stability, low immunogenicity and excellent tissue/cell penetration capacity. However, their practical applications can be limited due to insufficient targeting ability or low efficacy in some cases. In order to overcome these existing challenges, various approaches have been applied to engineer cell-derived exosomes for a higher selectivity and effectiveness. This review presents the state-of-the-art designs and applications of advanced exosome-based systems for targeted cargo delivery. By discussing experts’ opinions, we hope this review will inspire the researchers in this field to develop more practical exosomal delivery systems for clinical applications.

The vascular niche in next generation microphysiological systems

In recent years, microphysiological system (MPS, also known as, organ-on-a-chip or tissue chip) platforms have emerged with great promise to improve the predictive capacity of preclinical modeling thereby reducing the high attrition rates when drugs move into trials. While their designs can vary quite significantly, in general MPS are bioengineered in vitro microenvironments that recapitulate key functional units of human organs, and that have broad applications in human physiology, pathophysiology, and clinical pharmacology. A critical next step in the evolution of MPS devices is the widespread incorporation of functional vasculature within tissues. The vasculature itself is a major organ that carries nutrients, immune cells, signaling molecules and therapeutics to all other organs. It also plays critical roles in inducing and maintaining tissue identity through expression of angiocrine factors, and in providing tissue-specific milieus (i.e., the vascular niche) that can support the survival and function of stem cells. Thus, organs are patterned, maintained and supported by the vasculature, which in turn receives signals that drive tissue specific gene expression. In this review, we will discuss published vascularized MPS platforms and present considerations for next-generation devices looking to incorporate this critical constituent. Finally, we will highlight the organ-patterning processes governed by the vasculature, and how the incorporation of a vascular niche within MPS platforms will establish a unique opportunity to study stem cell development.

Metabolic effects of CoCr-enriched medium on shear-stressed endothelial cell and osteoblasts: A possible mechanism involving a hypoxic condition on bone healing

Cobalt-chromium (CoCr)-based alloys have emerged as an interesting biomaterial within biomedical field, mainly considering their biocompatibility, resistance to corrosion and absence of magnetism; however, its effect on cell metabolism is barely known and this prompted us better evaluating whether CoCr-enriched medium affects the metabolism of both osteoblast and endothelial cells, and also if there is a coupling between them. This is also considered here the already-known effect of Cobalt (Co) as a hypoxic element. Firstly, discs of CoCr [subjecting (W) or not (Wo) to dual acid-etched (DAE)] were incubated into FBS-free cell culture medium up to 24 h (37 °C). This CoCr-enriched medium was further used to treat shear-stressed endothelial cells cultures up to 72 h. Thereafter, the conditioned medium containing metabolites of shear-stressed endothelial cells in response to CoCr-enriched medium was further used to subject osteoblast's cultures, when the samples were properly harvested to allow the analysis of the molecular issues. Our data shows that CoCr-enriched medium contains 1.5 ng-2.0 ng/mL of Co, which was captured by endothelial cells and osteoblasts in about 30% in amount and it seems modulate their metabolic pathways: shear-stressed endothelial cells expressed higher profile of HIF1α, VEGF and nNOS genes, while their global profile of protein carbonylation was lower than the control cultures, suggesting lower oxidative stress commitment. Additionally, osteoblasts responding to metabolites of CoCr-challenged endothelial cells show dynamic expression of marker genes in osteogenic differentiation, with alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin, and bone sialoprotein (BSP) genes being significantly increased. Additionally, tensional shear-stress forces decrease the stimulus for ColA1gene expression in osteoblasts responding to endothelial cells metabolites, as well as modifying the extracellular matrix remodeling related genes. Analyzing the activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), the data shows that shear-stressed endothelial cells metabolites increase the activities of both MMP9 and MMP2 in osteoblasts. Altogether, our data shows for the first time that shear-stressed endothelial metabolites responding to CoCr discs contribute to osteogenic phenotype in vitro, and this predicts an active crosstalk between angiogenesis and osteogenesis during osseointegration of CoCr alloy and bone healing, maybe guided by the Co-induced hypoxic condition.

CD63-mediated cloaking of VEGF in small extracellular vesicles contributes to anti-VEGF therapy resistance

Despite wide use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy for many solid cancers, most individuals become resistant to this therapy, leading to disease progression. Therefore, new biomarkers and strategies for blocking adaptive resistance of cancer to anti-VEGF therapy are needed. As described here, we demonstrate that cancer-derived small extracellular vesicles package increasing quantities of VEGF and other factors in response to anti-VEGF therapy. The packaging process of VEGF into small extracellular vesicles (EVs) is mediated by the tetraspanin CD63. Furthermore, small EV-VEGF (eVEGF) is not accessible to anti-VEGF antibodies and can trigger intracrine VEGF signaling in endothelial cells. eVEGF promotes angiogenesis and enhances tumor growth despite bevacizumab treatment. These data demonstrate a mechanism where VEGF is partitioned into small EVs and promotes tumor angiogenesis and progression. These findings have clinical implications for biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for ovarian cancer.

Exosomes in Atherosclerosis, a Double-Edged Sword: Their Role in Disease Pathogenesis and Their Potential as Novel Therapeutics

Cardiovascular disease (CAD) due to atherosclerosis is a major cause of death worldwide. The development of atherosclerosis involves intercellular communication facilitated by exosomes secreted from vascular endothelial cells (VECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), immune cells, and platelets. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of exosome biogenesis and uptake, and discuss atherogenic and atheroprotective functions of exosomes secreted from these cell types. In addition, we examine the potential of enhancing the therapeutic and targeting ability of exosomes exhibiting atheroprotective function by drug loading and surface modification with targeting ligands. We conclude with current challenges associated with exosome engineering for therapeutic use.

Elastomeric Cardiowrap Scaffolds Functionalized with Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived Exosomes Induce a Positive Modulation in the Inflammatory and Wound Healing Response of Mesenchymal Stem Cell and Macrophage

A challenge in contractile restoration of myocardial scars is one of the principal aims in cardiovascular surgery. Recently, a new potent biological tool used within healing processes is represented by exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These cells are the well-known extracellular nanovesicles released from cells to facilitate cell function and communication. In this work, a combination of elastomeric membranes and exosomes was obtained and tested as a bioimplant. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and macrophages were seeded into the scaffold (polycaprolactone) and filled with exosomes derived from MSCs. Cells were tested for proliferation with an MTT test, and for wound healing properties and macrophage polarization by gene expression. Moreover, morphological analyses of their ability to colonize the scaffolds surfaces have been further evaluated. Results confirm that exosomes were easily entrapped onto the surface of the elastomeric scaffolds, increasing the wound healing properties and collagen type I and vitronectin of the MSC, and improving the M2 phenotype of the macrophages, mainly thanks to the increase in miRNA124 and decrease in miRNA 125. We can conclude that the enrichment of elastomeric scaffolds functionalized with exosomes is as an effective strategy to improve myocardial regeneration.

SHED aggregate exosomes shuttled miR-26a promote angiogenesis in pulp regeneration via TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signalling

OBJECTIVES

Pulp regeneration brings big challenges for clinicians, and vascularization is considered as its determining factor. We previously accomplished pulp regeneration with autologous stem cells from deciduous teeth (SHED) aggregates implantation in teenager patients, however, the underlying mechanism needs to be clarified for regenerating pulp in adults. Serving as an important effector of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), exosomes have been reported to promote angiogenesis and tissue regeneration effectively. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of SHED aggregate-derived exosomes (SA-Exo) in the angiogenesis of pulp regeneration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We extracted exosomes from SHED aggregates and utilized them in the pulp regeneration animal model. The pro-angiogenetic effects of SA-Exo on SHED and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were evaluated. The related mechanisms were further investigated.

RESULTS

We firstly found that SA-Exo significantly improved pulp tissue regeneration and angiogenesis in vivo. Next, we found that SA-Exo promoted SHED endothelial differentiation and enhanced the angiogenic ability of HUVECs, as indicated by the in vitro tube formation assay. Mechanistically, miR-26a, which is enriched in SA-Exo, improved angiogenesis both in SHED and HUVECs via regulating TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signalling.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, these data reveal that SA-Exo shuttled miR-26a promotes angiogenesis via TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signalling contributing to SHED aggregate-based pulp tissue regeneration. These novel insights into SA-Exo may facilitate the development of new strategies for pulp regeneration.

Engineering of Extracellular Vesicles Based on Payload Changes for Tissue Regeneration

In the field of tissue regeneration and tissue engineering, many years ago, various nano to macroscopic-sized materials have been used to reduce inflammation and restore damaged tissue. Whether it is safe to study the regeneration of all tissues based on the biological mechanisms of an organism composed of cells is still debated, and studies using extracellular vesicles derived from cells have become popular in the past decade. It has been reported that exosomes with a size of 100 nm or less, which plays an important role in cell-cell communication, contain various factors, such as proliferation, anti-inflammatory, and growth factors. In addition, the payload of exosomes varies depending on the parent cell and the recipient cell, and a technology to differentiate the selective payload must treat specific diseases. In this review, we examined the current trends in research using exosomes derived from cells or tissues and analyzed various research reports on factors that can affect tissue regeneration.

Exosomes of adult human fibroblasts cultured on 3D silk fibroin nonwovens intensely stimulate neoangiogenesis

Background

Bombyx mori silk fibroin is a biomacromolecule that allows the assembly of scaffolds for tissue engineering and regeneration purposes due to its cellular adhesiveness, high biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. Earlier work showed that two types of 3D silk fibroin nonwovens (3D-SFnws) implanted into mouse subcutaneous tissue were promptly vascularized via undefined molecular mechanisms. The present study used nontumorigenic adult human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) adhering to a third type of 3D-SFnws to assess whether HDFs release exosomes whose contents promote neoangiogenesis.

Methods

Electron microscopy imaging and physical tests defined the features of the novel carded/hydroentangled 3D-SFnws. HDFs were cultured on 3D-SFnws and polystyrene plates in an exosome-depleted medium. DNA amounts and D-glucose consumption revealed the growth and metabolic activities of HDFs on 3D-SFnws. CD9-expressing total exosome fractions were from conditioned media of 3D-SFnws and 2D polystyrene plates HDF cultures. Angiogenic growth factors (AGFs) in equal amounts of the two groups of exosomal proteins were analysed via double-antibody arrays. A tube formation assay using human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMVECs) was used to evaluate the exosomes’ angiogenic power.

Results

The novel features of the 3D-SFnws met the biomechanical requirements typical of human soft tissues. By experimental day 15, 3D-SFnws-adhering HDFs had increased 4.5-fold in numbers and metabolized 5.4-fold more D-glucose than at day 3 in vitro. Compared to polystyrene-stuck HDFs, exosomes from 3D-SFnws-adhering HDFs carried significantly higher amounts of AGFs, such as interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-4 and IL-8; angiopoietin-1 and angiopoietin-2; angiopoietin-1 receptor (or Tie-2); growth-regulated oncogene (GRO)-α, GRO-β and GRO-γ; matrix metalloproteinase-1; tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-1; and urokinase-type plasminogen activator surface receptor, but lesser amounts of anti-angiogenic tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 and pro-inflammatory monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. At concentrations from 0.62 to 10 μg/ml, the exosomes from 3D-SFnws-cultured HDFs proved their angiogenic power by inducing HDMVECs to form significant amounts of tubes in vitro.

Conclusions

The structural and mechanical properties of carded/hydroentangled 3D-SFnws proved their suitability for tissue engineering and regeneration applications. Consistent with our hypothesis, 3D-SFnws-adhering HDFs released exosomes carrying several AGFs that induced HDMVECs to promptly assemble vascular tubes in vitro. Hence, we posit that once implanted in vivo, the 3D-SFnws/HDFs interactions could promote the vascularization and repair of extended skin wounds due to burns or other noxious agents in human and veterinary clinical settings.

Insights into circular RNAs: their biogenesis, detection, and emerging role in cardiovascular disease

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are an evolutionarily conserved form of noncoding RNA with covalently closed loop structures. Initial studies established a functional role for circRNAs as potent microRNA sponges and many other studies have focussed solely on this. However, the biological functions of most circRNAs are still undetermined and other functional roles are gaining traction. These include protein sponges and regulators, and coding for proteins with an alternative mechanism of translation, potentially opening up a whole new transcriptome. The first step to gaining insight into circRNA function is accurate identification and various software platforms have been developed. Specialized detection software has now evolved into whole bioinformatics pipelines that can be used for detection, de novo identification, functional prediction, and validation of circRNAs. However, few cardiovascular circRNA studies have utilized these tools. This review summarizes current knowledge of circRNA biogenesis, bioinformatic detection tools and the emerging role of circRNAs in cardiovascular disease.

Mitoptosis, Twenty Years After

In 1999 V. P. Skulachev proposed the term "mitoptosis" to refer to the programmed elimination of mitochondria in living cells. According to the initial thought, mitoptosis serves to protect cells from malfunctioning of the damaged mitochondria. At the same time, a new mechanism of the complete mitochondria elimination was found under the conditions of massive mitochondrial damage associated with oxidative stress. In this experimental model, mitochondrial cluster formation in the perinuclear region leads to the formation of "mitoptotic body" surrounded by a single-layer membrane and subsequent release of mitochondria from the cell. Later, it was found that mitoptosis plays an important role in various normal and pathological processes that are not necessarily associated with the mitochondrial damage. It was found that mitoptosis takes place during cell differentiation, self-maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells, metabolic remodelling, and elimination of the paternal mitochondria in organisms with the maternal inheritance of the mitochondrial DNA. Moreover, the associated with mitoptosis release of mitochondrial components into the blood may be involved in the transmission of signals between cells, but also leads to the development of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Mitoptosis can be attributed to the asymmetric inheritance of mitochondria in the division of yeast and some animal cells, when the defective mitochondria are transferred to one of the newly formed cells. Finally, a specific form of mitoptosis appears to be selective elimination of mitochondria with deleterious mutations in whole follicular ovarian cells in mammals. During formation of the primary follicle, the mitochondrial DNA copy number is significantly reduced. After division, the cells that receive predominantly mitochondria with deleterious mutations in their mtDNA die, thereby reducing the likelihood of transmission of these mutations to offspring. Further study of the mechanisms of mitoptosis in normal and pathological conditions is important both for understanding the processes of development and aging, and for designing therapeutic approaches for inflammatory, neurodegenerative and other diseases.

Clinical Implications of Exosomal PD-L1 in Cancer Immunotherapy

Inhibiting the programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1)/programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) signaling axis reinvigorates the antitumor immune response with remarkable clinical efficacy. Yet, low response rates limit the benefits of immunotherapy to a minority of patients. Recent studies have explored the importance of PD-L1 as a transmembrane protein in exosomes and have revealed exosomal PD-L1 as a mechanism of tumor immune escape and immunotherapy resistance. Exosomal PD-L1 suppresses T cell effector function, induces systemic immunosuppression, and transfers functional PD-L1 across the tumor microenvironment (TME). Because of its significant contribution to immune escape, exosomal PD-L1 has been proposed as a biomarker to predict immunotherapy response and to assess therapeutic efficacy. In this review, we summarize the immunological mechanisms of exosomal PD-L1, focusing on the factors that lead to exosome biogenesis and release. Next, we review the effect of exosomal PD-L1 on T cell function and its role across the TME. In addition, we discuss the latest findings on the use of exosomal PD-L1 as a biomarker for cancer immunotherapy. Throughout this review, we propose exosomal PD-L1 as a critical mediator of tumor progression and highlight the clinical implications that follow for immuno-oncology, discussing the potential to target exosomes to advance cancer treatment.

The role of extracellular vesicles in neointima formation post vascular injury

Pathological neointimal growth can develop in patients as a result of vascular injury following percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting using autologous saphenous vein, leading to arterial or vein graft occlusion. Neointima formation driven by intimal hyperplasia occurs as a result of a complex interplay between molecular and cellular processes involving different cell types including endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells and various inflammatory cells. Therefore, understanding the intercellular communication mechanisms underlying this process remains of fundamental importance in order to develop therapeutic strategies to preserve endothelial integrity and vascular health post coronary interventions. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including microvesicles and exosomes, are membrane-bound particles secreted by cells which mediate intercellular signalling in physiological and pathophysiological states, however their role in neointima formation is not fully understood. The purification and characterization techniques currently used in the field are associated with many limitations which significantly hinder the ability to comprehensively study the role of specific EV types and make direct functional comparisons between EV subpopulations. In this review, the current knowledge focusing on EV signalling in neointima formation post vascular injury is discussed.

The potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications of exosomes in drug-induced liver injury

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) has gradually become a global public medical problem, which can be caused by more than 1000 currently available drugs. Unfortunately, the diagnosis and treatment of DILI are limited and imperfect. Exosomes can be secreted by a variety of cells and tissues in the body, rich in cell-type specific proteins, nucleic acids and lipids, which has been widely studied as an important intercellular communication vehicle in liver diseases. Emerging data suggest that circulating exosomes and their cargos can be used as minimally-invasive sources of potential molecular biomarkers for the early detection, monitoring and evaluation of DILI. Exosomes in the urine were also found to contain proteins or RNAs that were indicative of DILI. In addition, exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cell or hepatocyte are considered potential therapeutic agents to promote liver regenerative responses, modulate inflammatory response and deduce hepatocytes apoptosis. Based on the current findings, we suggest the potential applications of exosomes as biomarkers and therapeutics for DILI.

Coadministration of endothelial and smooth muscle cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells as a therapy for critical limb ischemia

Critical limb ischemia is a condition in which tissue necrosis occurs due to arterial occlusion, resulting in limb amputation in severe cases. Both endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are needed for the regeneration of peripheral arteries in ischemic tissues. However, it is difficult to isolate and cultivate primary EC and SMC from patients for therapeutic angiogenesis. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are regarded as useful stem cells due to their pluripotent differentiation potential. In this study, we explored the therapeutic efficacy of human iPSC‐derived EC and iPSC‐derived SMC in peripheral artery disease model. After the induction of mesodermal differentiation of iPSC, CD34⁺ progenitor cells were isolated by magnetic‐activated cell sorting. Cultivation of the CD34⁺ progenitor cells in endothelial culture medium induced the expression of endothelial markers and phenotypes. Moreover, the CD34⁺ cells could be differentiated into SMC by cultivation in SMC culture medium. In a murine hindlimb ischemia model, cotransplantation of EC with SMC improved blood perfusion and increased the limb salvage rate in ischemic limbs compared to transplantation of either EC or SMC alone. Moreover, cotransplantation of EC and SMC stimulated angiogenesis and led to the formation of capillaries and arteries/arterioles in vivo. Conditioned medium derived from SMC stimulated the migration, proliferation, and tubulation of EC in vitro, and these effects were recapitulated by exosomes isolated from the SMC‐conditioned medium. Together, these results suggest that iPSC‐derived SMC enhance the therapeutic efficacy of iPSC‐derived EC in peripheral artery disease via an exosome‐mediated paracrine mechanism.

YB-1 transferred by gastric cancer exosomes promotes angiogenesis via enhancing the expression of angiogenic factors in vascular endothelial cells

Background

Angiogenesis is important for the progression of gastric cancer (GC). Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1) predicts advanced disease and indicates neovasculature formation in GC tissues, while the related mechanisms remain elusive. Exosomes mediate intercellular communications via transferring various molecules including proteins, lipids, mRNAs, and microRNAs, while the cargos of GC exosomes and the related mechanisms in GC angiogenesis were rarely reported except for several microRNAs.

Methods

In this study, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were, respectively, treated by the exosomes isolated from the YB-1 transfected and the control SGC-7901 cells (SGC-7901-OE-Exo and SGC-7901-NC-Exo), and their apoptosis, proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis were, sequentially, compared. The levels of angiogenic factors including VEGF, Ang-1, MMP-9 and IL-8 in the exosome-treated HUVECs and the GC-derived exosomes were, separately, detected using PCR and Western blotting as well as RNA sequencing assays.

Results

We observed the consistent level of YB-1 in the exosomes and their originated GC cells, and the internalization of exosomes into HUVECs. Comparing with SGC-7901-NC-Exo, SGC-7901-OE-Exo significantly inhibited the apoptosis but promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of HUVECs, within which the increased mRNA and protein levels of VEGF, Ang-1, MMP-9 and IL-8 were demonstrated. Meanwhile, mRNA levels of VEGF, Ang-1, MMP-9 and IL-8 showed no significant difference between SGC-7901-NC-Exo and SGC-7901-OE-Exo, although statistically higher mRNA of YB-1 was detected in the SGC-7901-OE-Exo.

Conclusions

Our findings illustrate YB-1 as the key component of exosome to promote GC angiogenesis by upregulating specific angiogenic factors in the exosome-treated endothelial cells but not in the exosomes themselves.

Extracellular Vesicles Released by Tumor Endothelial Cells Spread Immunosuppressive and Transforming Signals Through Various Recipient Cells

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has a high recurrence and metastatic rate with an unknown mechanism of cancer spread. Tumor inflammation is the most critical processes of cancer onset, growth, and metastasis. We hypothesize that the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) by tumor endothelial cells (TECs) induce reprogramming of immune cells as well as stromal cells to create an immunosuppressive microenvironment that favor tumor spread. We call this mechanism as non-metastatic contagious carcinogenesis. Extracellular vesicles were collected from primary HNSCC-derived endothelial cells (TEC-EV) and were used for stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and primary adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs). Regulation of ASC gene expression was investigated by RNA sequencing and protein array. PBMC, stimulated with TEC-EV, were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. We validated in vitro the effects of TEC-EV on ASCs or PBMC by measuring invasion, adhesion, and proliferation. We found and confirmed that TEC-EV were able to change ASC inflammatory gene expression signature within 24-48 h. TEC-EV were also able to enhance the secretion of TGF-β1 and IL-10 by PBMC and to increase T regulatory cell (Treg) expansion. TEC-EV carry specific proteins and RNAs that are responsible for Treg differentiation and immune suppression. ASCs and PBMC, treated with TEC-EV, enhanced proliferation, adhesion of tumor cells, and their invasion. These data indicate that TEC-EV exhibit a mechanism of non-metastatic contagious carcinogenesis that regulates tumor microenvironment and reprograms immune cells to sustain tumor growth and progression.

Extracellular Matrix Mimicking Nanofibrous Scaffolds Modified With Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles for Improved Vascularization

The network structure and biological components of natural extracellular matrix (ECM) are indispensable for promoting tissue regeneration. Electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds have been widely used in regenerative medicine to provide structural support for cell growth and tissue regeneration due to their natural ECM mimicking architecture, however, they lack biological functions. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are potent vehicles of intercellular communication due to their ability to transfer RNAs, proteins, and lipids, thereby mediating significant biological functions in different biological systems. Matrix-bound nanovesicles (MBVs) are identified as an integral and functional component of ECM bioscaffolds mediating significant regenerative functions. Therefore, to engineer EVs modified electrospun scaffolds, mimicking the structure of the natural EV-ECM complex and the physiological interactions between the ECM and EVs, will be attractive and promising in tissue regeneration. Previously, using one-bead one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial technology, we identified LLP2A, an integrin α4β1 ligand, which had a strong binding to human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs). In this study, we isolated PMSCs derived EVs (PMSC-EVs) and demonstrated they expressed integrin α4β1 and could improve endothelial cell (EC) migration and vascular sprouting in an ex vivo rat aortic ring assay. LLP2A treated culture surface significantly improved PMSC-EV attachment, and the PMSC-EV treated culture surface significantly enhanced the expression of angiogenic genes and suppressed apoptotic activity. We then developed an approach to enable "Click chemistry" to immobilize LLP2A onto the surface of electrospun scaffolds as a linker to immobilize PMSC-EVs onto the scaffold. The PMSC-EV modified electrospun scaffolds significantly promoted EC survival and angiogenic gene expression, such as KDR and TIE2, and suppressed the expression of apoptotic markers, such as caspase 9 and caspase 3. Thus, PMSC-EVs hold promising potential to functionalize biomaterial constructs and improve the vascularization and regenerative potential. The EVs modified biomaterial scaffolds can be widely used for different tissue engineering applications.

Migrasome and Tetraspanins in Vascular Homeostasis: Concept, Present, and Future

Cell migration plays a critical role in vascular homeostasis. Under noxious stimuli, endothelial cells (ECs) migration always contributes to vascular repair, while enhanced migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) will lead to pathological vascular remodeling. Moreover, vascular activities are involved in communication between ECs and VSMCs, between ECs and immune cells, et al. Recently, Ma et al. (2015) discovered a novel migration-dependent organelle “migrasome,” which mediated release of cytoplasmic contents, and this process was defined as “migracytosis.” The formation of migrasome is precisely regulated by tetraspanins (TSPANs), cholesterol and integrins. Migrasomes can be taken up by neighboring cells, and migrasomes are distributed in many kinds of cells and tissues, such as in blood vessel, human serum, and in ischemic brain of human and mouse. In addition, the migrasome elements TSPANs are wildly expressed in cardiovascular system. Therefore, TSPANs, migrasomes and migracytosis might play essential roles in regulating vascular homeostasis. In this review, we will discuss the discoveries of migration-dependent migrasome and migracytosis, migrasome formation, the basic differences between migrasomes and exosomes, the distributions and functions of migrasome, the functions of migrasome elements TSPANs in vascular biology, and discuss the possible roles of migrasomes and migracytosis in vascular homeostasis.

Targeting endothelial exosomes for the prevention of cardiovascular disease

Exosomes are small lipid bilayer-enclosed 30-140 nm diameter vesicles formed from endosomes. Exosomes are secreted by various cell types including endothelial cells, immune cells and other cardiovascular tissues, and they can be detected in plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, as well as tissues. Exosomes were initially regarded as a disposal mechanism to discard unwanted materials from cells. Recent studies suggest that exosomes play an important role in mediating of intercellular communication through the delivery and transport of cellular components such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins and thus regulate cardiovascular disease. Further, the underlying mechanisms by which abnormally released exosomes promote cardiovascular disease are not well understood. This review highlights recent studies involving endothelial exosomes, gives a brief overview of exosome biogenesis and release, isolation and identification of exosomes, and provides a contemporary understanding of the endothelial exosome pathophysiology and potential therapeutic strategies.