We have collected the most exciting new researches in the field of genetics and cellular research in the past week.
Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes enhance follicular regeneration in androgenetic alopecia via activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Exosomes, containing molecular constituents of their cell of origin, including proteins and nucleic acids, were first discovered in immature red blood cells in 1983. Excellent intercell communication can be achieved by shuttling these various molecules between cells. Stem cell-derived exosomes (SC-Exos) contain paracrine-soluble factors that play important roles in tissue development, homeostasis, and regeneration. This paracrine activity of SC-Exos has been found to be a predominant mechanism by which stem cell-based therapies mediate their effects on degenerative, autoimmune and/or inflammatory diseases. Compared to other types of stem cells, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are the most popular because of their efficient immunomodulatory effects. The advantages and disadvantages of using exosomes isolated from the stem cell trio for therapeutic applications are further discussed in this review.
Brain-Derived Exosomes in Neurodevelopmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Molecular Insights, Therapeutic Potential, and Translational Challenges
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and other neurological disorders, present significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to complex pathological physiology and heterogeneous presentation. Brain-derived exosomes, which are extracellular vesicles measuring 30–150 nm, cross the blood–brain barrier, transporting disease-specific molecular cargoes such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, making them promising biomarkers and therapeutic vehicles. Recent advances have identified exosomal features specific to the disorder, including a reduction in brain-derived neurotrophic factors and an increase in miR-125b in ADHD, an increase in miR-146a and IL-6 in autism spectrum disorders, a change in sphingolipid profiles in schizophrenia, and a dysregulation of phosphatidylserine in bipolar disorders. These molecular signatures enable noninvasive surveillance of disease progression and response. BDEs exhibit context-dependent functions and can be both neuroprotective and potential agents for disease spread, depending on the cellular microenvironment. Important translational barriers include standardizing isolation methods, scaling up clinical production, and developing regulatory frameworks. Current evidence supports progress in clinical trials and continues to investigate manufacturing standards and therapeutic dosage protocols for these agents. Brain-derived exosome represents a convergence of neuroscience and precision medicine, providing pathways for improving the diagnosis and customized treatment strategies for NDD.
Exosomes and immune modulation: implications for neuroblastoma immunotherapy
Prospects of engineered exosomes in clinical applications: a review
miRNAs and exosomes in psoriasis: coordinating cytoskeleton dynamics and extracellular matrix remodeling
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by keratinocyte hyperproliferation, immune dysregulation, and abnormal epidermal differentiation. Its pathogenesis involves complex interactions among keratinocytes, fibroblasts, T cells, and myeloid cells, where dynamic cytoskeletal and extracellular matrix changes critically mediate intercellular communication. Emerging evidence highlights the pivotal roles of miRNAs and exosomes in coordinating these processes: miRNAs regulate cytoskeletal organization and extracellular matrix composition, while exosomes act as intercellular messengers that deliver miRNA-mediated signals, collectively shaping cell behavior and disease progression. This review synthesizes current knowledge on how miRNA-exosome networks drive cytoskeleton-extracellular matrix crosstalk in psoriasis, emphasizing their implications for cellular communication and tissue remodeling. By elucidating these mechanisms, we identify potential therapeutic opportunities to target pathogenic signaling pathways, offering new strategies for psoriasis management.
