Potential Therapeutic Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-derived EVs) are nanoscale particles that play a crucial role in regulating various biological processes by transferring nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. These vesicles reflect the physiological or pathological state of the cells that release them and have potential as disease markers or therapeutic agents capable of delivering bioactive molecules across body barriers. MSCs, known for their immunomodulatory and regenerative properties, are already used in treatments, and their therapeutic effects are often mediated by cytokines, growth factors, and other bioactive molecules, with EVs being key in delivering these molecules to target cells. While MSC-derived EVs show comparable therapeutic potential to their source cells, challenges such as lack of standardized procedures, production complexity, high costs, and regulatory hurdles need to be addressed. The article reviews recent basic and preclinical research, clinical studies, and key challenges that will influence the future development of MSC-derived EVs for therapeutic use.