Advances in the Applications of Extracellular Vesicle for the Treatment of Skin Photoaging: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Skin photoaging is a complex biological process characterized by the accumulation of oxidative damage and structural changes in the skin, resulting from chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Despite the growing demand for effective treatments, current therapeutic options for skin photoaging remain limited. However, emerging research has highlighted the potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, micro-vesicles, apoptotic bodies and liposomes, as promising therapeutic agents in skin rejuvenation. EVs are involved in intercellular communication and can deliver bioactive molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, to recipient cells, thereby influencing various cellular processes. This comprehensive review aims to summarize the current research progress in the application of EVs for the treatment of skin photoaging, including their isolation and characterization methods, roles in skin homeostasis, therapeutic potential and clinical applications for skin photoaging. Additionally, challenges and future directions in EVs-based therapies for skin rejuvenation are discussed.

Skin rejuvenation and photoaging protection using adipose‐derived stem cell extracellular vesicles loaded with exogenous cargos

“…These effects have been well-documented in numerous in vitro studies. 36 With regards to skin melanin level, we did not find consistent results among instruments to draw conclusion about skin brightening efficacy of sEVs, though it has been reported in the literature. 45 Given the content profiling of our ASC-sEVs, we speculate that exogenous loading or complementation with compounds such as arbutin might be required for optimal whitening effect.…”

“…We observed that 70%–80% of total sEV proteins were identical among independent batches, higher than the reported 46.7% rate 12 . Functional analyses of biocargos confirmed the promising regenerative and anti‐inflammatory properties of ASC‐sEVs as already established 2,36 …”

“…In the human trial, the loaded ASC‐sEVs were found safe and exhibited excellent skin rejuvenating effects by improving skin texture, boosting hydration and elasticity and reducing mean pore volume. These effects have been well‐documented in numerous in vitro studies 36 . With regards to skin melanin level, we did not find consistent results among instruments to draw conclusion about skin brightening efficacy of sEVs, though it has been reported in the literature 45 .…”

“…12 Functional analyses of biocargos confirmed the promising regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties of ASC-sEVs as already established. 2,36 The ASC-sEVs were further successfully loaded with anti-aging compounds with an average loading efficiency of ∼20%. This efficiency was in a high range compared to some other loading methods and consistent with previous studies.…”

Fabrication of a core–shell nanofibrous wound dressing with an antioxidant effect on skin injury

“…5 However, several clinical issues persist with these, warranting attention: (1) most commercial wound dressings would adhere to the wound site, causing tissue adhesion and discomfort when changing the dressing; 6,7 (2) according to previous research, the imbalance between oxidation and antioxidation during spontaneous physiological healing creates a destructive microenvironment when skin is damaged, 8,9 further causing cell damage and aging. 10 Therefore, designing a wound dressing that can guide the adhesion and proliferation of wound-repairing cells and regulate oxidative/antioxidative stress is an immediate requirement in clinical application.…”