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

own blood, is rich in platelets and growth factors that alopecia have included minimal pain at the injection site in
promote wound healing and tissue repair. When the scalp for up to 2 days following treatment. 21
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combined with exosomes, which have shown the ability Furthermore, the versatility of exosomes allows for
to stimulate DSC proliferation and promote hair follicle combination therapies, such as co-administration with
growth, the combined effects can potentially enhance hair growth factors or other regenerative agents, potentially
regeneration outcomes. Injection techniques are used, 2,23
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such as microneedling or direct injection, to facilitate amplifying their efficacy. As research progresses, the
precise delivery to the scalp. Due to limitations in identification of optimal dosage, frequency, and delivery
current medicinal therapies for hair loss (e.g., variability, methods will refine the application of exosomes in alopecia
ineffectiveness, non-compliance, and adverse effects), management, ushering in a new era of personalized and
regenerative strategies such as PRP and cell-based effective treatments.
therapies, including those employing exosomes, offer a The potential advantages of exosome-based therapies
comprehensive approach to conditions such as alopecia. over currently available dermatological treatments, such
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Further research and clinical trials are needed to fully as their ability to address multiple aspects of skin health
elucidate the efficacy and optimal protocols for this and regeneration, are presented in Table 1. This table also
combination therapy. That being said, understanding the underscores the need for more comparative clinical studies
nuances of these mechanisms is critical for improving to fully evaluate the efficacy and safety of exosome-based
exosome therapies for different types of alopecias to interventions in relation to standard-of-care options.
enhance and optimize treatment precision. Addressing these knowledge gaps will be crucial for the

2.1.2. Potential applications and benefits successful integration of exosome-based therapies into
dermatological practice. The various applications are also
The potential applications of exosomes in treating alopecias demonstrated in Figure 2.
extend beyond traditional approaches. Exosomes offer a
non-invasive and targeted therapeutic option, allowing 2.2. Efficacy in wound healing
us to circumvent the limitations associated with current 2.2.1. Examination of studies showcasing exosome
treatments, such as topical minoxidil or oral medications, effectiveness
which can accompanied by side effects, systemic impact,
and the need for long-term adherence. In addition, the Studies investigating the role of exosomes in wound
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regenerative potential of exosomes can not only halt hair healing have demonstrated their remarkable effectiveness
loss but also stimulate the growth of new, healthy hair. in accelerating the regenerative processes of the skin.
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Side effects of exosome use in the treatment of androgenetic These studies often utilize both in vitro and in vivo
Table 1. Comparative analysis of exosome-based therapies and current dermatological treatments

Condition Exosome-based therapy Current treatments Comparative outcomes
Alopecia (i) Stimulated hair follicle growth and (i) Topical minoxidil (i) Exosomes showed promising hair regenerative
proliferation of dermal papilla cells (ii) Oral finasteride effects, potentially overcoming limitations of
(ii) Increased hair density and (iii) Low-level light therapy existing treatments (e.g., side effects, long-term
thickness in clinical studies adherence)
Wound healing (i) Accelerated wound closure and (i) Topical wound dressings (i) Exosomes demonstrated the ability to orchestrate
re-epithelialization (ii) Growth factor therapies multiple stages of wound healing, offering a more
(ii) Enhanced angiogenesis and tissue Negative pressure wound comprehensive therapeutic approach
remodeling therapy
(iii) Modulated inflammatory response
Skin aging (i) Promoted collagen production and (i) Topical retinoids (i) Exosomes exhibited rejuvenating effects on aging
reduced oxidative stress (ii) Antioxidant serums skin, potentially providing a more targeted and
(ii) Improved skin texture and elasticity (iii) Laser treatments natural alternative to current anti-aging interventions
Acne (i) Reduced inflammation and sebum (i) Topical retinoids (i) Exosomes showed promise as an adjunct therapy to
production (ii) Oral antibiotics enhance the outcomes of existing acne treatments,
(ii) Improved appearance of acne scars (iii) Hormonal therapies particularly in addressing scarring
Pigmentation (i) Modulated melanocyte function (i) Topical depigmenting (i) Exosomes offer a novel approach to targeting
disorders and melanin synthesis agents the underlying mechanisms of pigmentation
(ii) Chemical peels disorders, potentially leading to more effective and
(iii) Laser treatments personalized treatments

Volume 3 Issue 2 (2024) 5 doi: 10.36922/gpd.3230