Nanoscale Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: Mesenchymal Stem Cell Exosome Transplantation

Abstract

A common surgical disease, intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is gradually appearing increasingly often in younger individuals. Repairing damaged intervertebral discs (IVDs) and promoting IVD tissue regeneration at the molecular level are important research goals. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by cells and can be derived from most body fluids. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exos) have characteristics similar to those of the parental MSCs. These EVs can shuttle various macromolecular substances, such as proteins, messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) and regulate the activity of recipient cells through intercellular communication. Reducing inflammation and apoptosis can significantly promote IVD regeneration to facilitate repair of the IVD. Compared with MSCs, exosomes are more convenient to store and transport, and the use of exosomes can prevent the risk of rejection with cell transplantation. Furthermore, MSC-exo-mediated treatment may be safer and more effective than MSC transplantetion. In this review, we summarize the use of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs), nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs), and stem cells from other sources for tissue engineering and use in IVDD. Here, we aim to describe the role of exosomes in inhibiting IVDD, their potential therapeutic effects, the results of the most recent research, and their clinical application prospects to provide an overview for researchers seeking to explore new treatment strategies and improve the efficacy of IVDD treatment.

Roles of adipose-derived stem cells and derived exosomes in therapeutic applications to testicular injury caused by cisplatin

“…ADSC-Ex has several advantages over ADSCs themselves, including lower immunogenicity, reduced risk of tumorigenesis, and easier storage and transportation [ 26 ]. Moreover, ADSC-Ex can cross biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier, and target specific tissues or cells, making them an attractive therapeutic option [ 27 ] Several studies have investigated the therapeutic potential of ADSC-Ex in tissue injury models, such as myocardial infarction, acute kidney injury, and spinal cord injury [ 28 ]. These studies have shown that ADSC-Ex can promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and improve functional recovery [ 29 ].…”

Stress stimulation maintaining by genipin crosslinked hydrogel promotes annulus fibrosus healing

“…Stem cell therapy acts as a seed by secreting cytokines and growth factors that promote the regeneration of AF [ [27] , [28] , [29] ]. Among the types of stem cells used for AF repair and regeneration, bone marrow-derived MSCs are the most commonly used stem cells [ 30 , 31 ]. However, how to promote the targeted differentiation of MSCs into AF cells has been a difficult problem.…”

Stem cell therapy for degenerative disc disease: Bridging the gap between preclinical promise and clinical potential

“…This mode of transport plays a significant role in modulating cell behavior and highlights the complex communication that occurs between stem cells and the microenvironment of the IVD. These nuances underscore that the challenges of MSC therapy begin even at the molecular level, emphasizing the ongoing need for further investigation and innovative approaches to fully realize their potential [ 16 , 17 , 50 ]. The development of ex vivo IVD organ models is ongoing.…”

“…One area of focus is the development of novel scaffolds or biomaterials that create a favorable environment for stem cells, thereby promoting their survival and guiding their differentiation [13,14]. Researchers are exploring different delivery methods to improve targeted delivery to specific tissues [15][16][17]. Moreover, ongoing studies are investigating the possibility of combining stem cell implantation with other therapeutic approaches, such as gene therapy or immunomodulation [4,18].…”