Engineered mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes: A revolutionary approach to unlocking liver disease treatment
Amir Hossein Kheirkhah, Mohsen Sheykhhasan, Faezeh Hosseinzadeh, Leyla Fath-Bayati
Abstract
Exosomes, a specific type of extracellular vesicle with diameters ranging from 30 to 150 nm, play a vital role in coordinating various physiological and pathological processes through direct cell-to-cell communication. These vesicles transport a diverse range of molecules, including proteins, mRNAs, miRNAs, and lipids, that originate from parent cells. Exosomes are released by nearly all cell types, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and possess significant potential due to their regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. In the context of liver disease treatment, these capabilities offer hope. Despite their limited lifespan in the bloodstream and suboptimal targeting efficiency, researchers are exploring the potential of modifying MSC-derived exosomes through genetic or chemical means. This article highlights the promising characteristics and applications of MSC-derived exosomes, presenting new perspectives on the latest advancements in exosome engineering for liver regeneration and therapy. • Engineered MSC-derived exosomes offer a novel strategy for liver disease therapy. • MSC exosomes exhibit strong regenerative, anti-fibrotic, and immunomodulatory effects in the liver. • Genetic and chemical modification enhances the targeting efficiency of exosome therapy. • Exosome-mediated delivery of miRNAs supports liver regeneration and reduces inflammation. • Preclinical studies confirm that MSC exosomes reduce acute liver injury and fibrosis.