New strategies of neurodegenerative disease treatment with extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the progressive loss of neurons and intricate interactions between different cell types within the affected regions. Reliable biomarkers that can accurately reflect disease activity, diagnose, and monitor the progression of neurodegenerative diseases are crucial for the development of effective therapies. However, identifying suitable biomarkers has been challenging due to the heterogeneous nature of these diseases, affecting specific subsets of neurons in different brain regions. One promising approach for promoting brain regeneration and recovery involves the transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs have demonstrated the ability to modulate the immune system, promote neurite outgrowth, stimulate angiogenesis, and repair damaged tissues, partially through the release of their extracellular vesicles (EVs). MSC-derived EVs retain some of the therapeutic characteristics of their parent MSCs, including their ability to regulate neurite outgrowth, promote angiogenesis, and facilitate tissue repair. This review aims to explore the potential of MSC-derived EVs as an emerging therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting their role in modulating disease progression and promoting neuronal recovery. By elucidating the mechanisms by which MSC-derived EVs exert their therapeutic effects, we can advance our understanding and leverage their potential for the development of novel treatment approaches in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.

Keywords: MSC-EVs; Mechanisms; Neurodegenerative diseases; Therapeutic strategies.

Figure 1

Hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration and dysfunction of neurons in the central nervous system. While each neurodegenerative disease has its own unique features, there are several common hallmarks that are often associated with these conditions.

Figure 2

Currently available therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. While there is no definitive cure for most neurodegenerative diseases, there are various therapies and interventions available to help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

Figure 3

MSC-derived EVs for neurodegenerative diseases. MSC-derived EVs have gained significant attention as potential therapeutic agents for neurological diseases. It represents some information on their sources, isolation methods, biomarkers, and storage considerations. However, current researches are still evolving, and there may be additional developments and refinements in isolation methods, biomarker identification, and storage strategies as further research progresses.

Figure 4

Emerging therapeutic potential of MSC-derived EVs in neurological diseases. The therapeutic potential of MSC-derived EVs in neurological diseases has been a subject of growing interest and research. Emerging evidence suggests that MSC-derived EVs hold promise as a novel therapeutic approach for various neurological conditions.