The role of stem cell-derived exosomes in the repair of cutaneous and bone tissue

J Cell Biochem. 2022 Feb;123(2):183-201. doi: 10.1002/jcb.30144. Epub 2021 Sep 12.

Abstract

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles secreted by various cell types, which play important roles in physiological processes. In particular, stem cell-derived exosomes have been shown to play crucial functions in intercellular communication during the tissue healing process. This review summarizes the effects of exosomes derived from different stem cell sources on the repair of cutaneous and bone tissue, focusing on the different pathways that could be involved in the regeneration process. The biogenesis, isolation, and content of exosomes have also been discussed. The effectiveness of exosomes is broadly demonstrated for skin and bone regeneration in animal models, supporting the basis for clinical translation of exosomes as a ready-to-use cell-free therapeutic for skin and bone regeneration.

Keywords: bone; exosomes; paracrine communication; skin; stromal cells; tissue regeneration.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Regeneration*
  • Bone and Bones* / injuries
  • Bone and Bones* / metabolism
  • Exosomes* / metabolism
  • Exosomes* / transplantation
  • Humans
  • Skin* / injuries
  • Skin* / metabolism
  • Stem Cells / metabolism*