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Gene & Protein in Disease A review of exosome-mediated treatments

this review can contribute to a deeper understanding of the interventions. Moreover, investigations into specific types
molecular and cellular processes involved, paving the way of exosomes, such as those derived from mesenchymal
for further innovations in dermatological therapeutics. By stem cells (MSCs) or adipose-derived sources, have shown
elucidating the nuances of exosome-mediated signaling distinct mechanisms underlying their effectiveness. 4,14
and regenerative properties, researchers can refine and In terms of the selection of topical or injectable exosome
optimize treatment strategies, ultimately shaping the treatments, both have shown promising results in utilizing
future of dermatology.
exosomes for treating alopecia. One study demonstrated
This review serves as a crucial bridge between research that exosomes derived from sources such as adipose-
findings and clinical applications, aiming to synthesize and derived stem cells (ADSCs) and DPCs have demonstrated
disseminate knowledge to both clinicians and researchers. promising results in pre-clinical studies across different
By providing a comprehensive overview of the current model systems. Specifically, the topical application
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landscape and future directions in utilizing exosomes of exosomes isolated from ADSCs (ADSC-Exos) was
for dermatological treatments, it seeks to facilitate the successfully implemented in 39 androgenetic alopecia
seamless integration of cutting-edge research into practical patients, resulting in significant increases in hair density
clinical applications. Bridging this gap ensures that the and thickness. It was noted that both injection and topical
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transformative potential of exosome-based therapies is administration routes offered potential avenues for using
realized in the clinic, offering tangible benefits to patients, exosomes in therapeutic interventions, with demonstrated
and pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in the efficacy and safety profiles. Another study investigated the
realm of dermatology. As the synergy between research therapeutic potential of ADSC-Exos in promoting hair
and clinical practice strengthens, exosome-based therapies regrowth and demonstrated that subcutaneous injection of
may emerge as key interventions in the field, transforming ADSC-Exos significantly enhanced DPC proliferation and
the way dermatological conditions are managed and migration while also reducing apoptosis. Subcutaneous
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treated. injection of ADSC-Exos in mice led to improved hair
growth, increased hair follicles, and a thicker dermis
1.6. Methodology
compared to controls. These findings highlight the
For this narrative review, a comprehensive search promising role of ADSC-Exos as a cell-free therapeutic
strategy across various databases, including PubMed, strategy for immune-mediated alopecia, both via topic use
Science Direct, and Google Scholar, was utilized. The and injections.
search focused on a combination of keywords such as
Primary sources for commercial exosome products
exosomes, alopecia, wound healing, tissue regeneration, include bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) and
and regenerative medicine. Articles were screened without placenta tissue-derived MSCs (PD-MSCs). An analysis
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time restrictions to ensure a thorough examination of the of these exosome sources concluded that BM-MSCs
relevant literature pertaining to the use of exosomes in exhibit a superior safety profile and efficacy compared to
alopecia. This approach aimed to provide a comprehensive PD-MSCs. Human-derived exosomes are considered
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overview and synthesis of existing evidence in the field
while also guiding the identification of future research conventional sources, whereas non-conventional sources
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directions necessary to advance knowledge in this domain. include animal, plant, and microbes. Sources of exosomes
used in dermatology have included plasma-derived
2. Exosomes in dermatological treatments exosomes, oral squamous cell carcinoma, myeloid-derived
suppressor cells, blister fluid-derived NK-92 cells, and
2.1. Efficacy in alopecias ADSCs, among others. Exosomes have also been derived
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2.1.1. Review of current research and case studies from plants and snake venom, and exosome-like vesicles

The exploration of exosome efficacy in addressing have been acquired from bee glandular secretion products
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alopecias has become a focal point of dermatological such as honey.
research. Numerous studies and case reports have Furthermore, combining exosomes with platelet-
provided valuable insights into the potential of exosomes rich plasma (PRP) presents a promising approach for
for hair regeneration. Current research indicates that addressing alopecia, offering the potential for enhanced
7,12
exosomes when applied to the scalp or hair follicles, may hair restoration outcomes. Exosomes, derived from
stimulate the proliferation of dermal papilla cells (DPCs) cell cultures typically sourced from MSCs, contain
and promote hair follicle growth. Case studies have a combination of signaling molecules and growth
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reported positive outcomes, with visible improvements factors known to stimulate tissue regeneration and cell
in hair density and thickness following exosome-based proliferation. Similarly, PRP, prepared from the patient’s

Volume 3 Issue 2 (2024) 4 doi: 10.36922/gpd.3230