miR-3960 from Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Inactivates SDC1/Wnt/β-Catenin Axis to Relieve Chondrocyte Injury in Osteoarthritis by Targeting PHLDA2

Mesenchymal stem cells and their extracellular vesicles in bone and joint diseases: targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome

The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like-receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a cytosolic multi-subunit protein complex, and recent studies have demonstrated the vital role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathological and physiological conditions, which cleaves gasdermin D to induce inflammatory cell death called pyroptosis and mediates the release of interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-18 in response to microbial infection or cellular injury. Over-activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is associated with the pathogenesis of many disorders affecting bone and joints, including gouty arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and periodontitis. Moreover, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been discovered to facilitate the inhibition of NLRP3 and maybe ideal for treating bone and joint diseases. In this review, we implicate the structure and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome along with the detail on the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome in bone and joint diseases pathology. In addition, we focused on MSCs and MSC-extracellular vesicles targeting NLRP3 inflammasomes in bone and joint diseases. Finally, the existing problems and future direction are also discussed.

Therapeutics of the future: Navigating the pitfalls of extracellular vesicles research from an osteoarthritis perspective

Extracellular vesicles have gained wide momentum as potential therapeutics for osteoarthritis, a highly prevalent chronic disease that still lacks an approved treatment. The membrane-bound vesicles are secreted by all cells carrying different cargos that can serve as both disease biomarkers and disease modifiers. Nonetheless, despite a significant peak in research regarding EVs as OA therapeutics, clinical implementation seems distant. In addition to scalability and standardization challenges, researchers often omit to focus on and consider the proper tropism of the vesicles, the practicality and relevance of their source, their low native therapeutic efficacy, and whether they address the disease as a whole. These considerations are necessary to better understand EVs in a clinical light and have been comprehensively discussed and ultimately summarized in this review into a conceptualized framework termed the nanodiamond concept. Future perspectives are also discussed, and alternatives are presented to address some of the challenges and concerns.

Myricetin Restores Autophagy to Attenuate Lumbar Intervertebral Disk Degeneration Via Negative Regulation of the JAK2/STAT3 Pathway

Autophagy is a critical player in lumbar intervertebral disk degeneration (IDD), and autophagy activation has been suggested to prevent the apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). Myricetin has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant potentials and can activate autophagy. Thus, this study focused on the roles and mechanisms of myricetin in IDD. A puncture-induced rat IDD model was established and intraperitoneally injected with 20-mg/kg/day myricetin. Histopathological changes of intervertebral disks (IVDs) were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and Safranin O/Fast Green staining. The isolated NPCs from IVDs of healthy rats were stimulated with IL-1β to mimic IDD-like conditions. The roles of myricetin in cell apoptosis, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, autophagy repression, and the JAK2/STAT3 pathway activation were examined by cell counting kit-8, flow cytometry, western blotting, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence staining. Myricetin treatment attenuated the apoptosis and ECM degradation, and enhanced autophagy in the IL-1β-treated NPCs, whereas the myricetin-mediated protection was limited by autophagy inhibition. Mechanistically, myricetin activated autophagy through blocking the JAK2/STAT3 signaling. In vivo experiments revealed that intraperitoneal injection of myricetin activated NPC autophagy to relieve puncture injury in rats. Myricetin prevents IDD by attenuating NPC apoptosis and ECM degradation through blocking the JAK2/STAT3 pathway to enhance autophagy.

Strategies in product engineering of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes: unveiling the mechanisms underpinning the promotive effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes

Articular cartilage injuries present a significant global challenge, particularly in the aging population. These injuries not only restrict movement due to primary damage but also exacerbate elderly degenerative lesions, leading to secondary cartilage injury and osteoarthritis. Addressing osteoarthritis and cartilage damage involves overcoming several technical challenges in biological treatment. The use of induced mesenchymal stem cells (iMSCs) with functional gene modifications emerges as a solution, providing a more stable and controllable source of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) with reduced heterogeneity. Furthermore, In addition, this review encompasses strategies aimed at enhancing exosome efficacy, comprising the cultivation of MSCs in three-dimensional matrices, augmentation of functional constituents within MSC-derived exosomes, and modification of their surface characteristics. Finally, we delve into the mechanisms through which MSC-exosomes, sourced from diverse tissues, thwart osteoarthritis (OA) progression and facilitate cartilage repair. This review lays a foundational framework for engineering iMSC-exosomes treatment of patients suffering from osteoarthritis and articular cartilage injuries, highlighting cutting-edge research and potential therapeutic pathways.

Control of articular degeneration by extracellular vesicles from stem/stromal cells as a potential strategy for the treatment of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition that contributes to years lived with disability. Current therapeutic approaches are limited as there are no disease-modifying interventions able to delay or inhibit the progression of disease. In recent years there has been an increasing interest in the immunomodulatory and regenerative properties of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) to develop new OA therapies. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate many of the biological effects of these cells and may represent an alternative avoiding the limitations of cell-based therapy. There is also a growing interest in EV modifications to enhance their efficacy and applications. Recent preclinical studies have provided strong evidence supporting the potential of MSC EVs for the development of OA treatments. Thus, MSC EVs may regulate chondrocyte functions to avoid cartilage destruction, inhibit abnormal subchondral bone metabolism and synovial tissue alterations, and control pain behavior. EV actions may be mediated by the transfer of their cargo to target cells, with an important role for proteins and non-coding RNAs modulating signaling pathways relevant for OA progression. Nevertheless, additional investigations are needed concerning EV optimization, and standardization of preparation procedures. More research is also required for a better knowledge of possible effects on different OA phenotypes, pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, long-term effects and safety profile. Furthermore, MSC EVs have a high potential as vehicles for drug delivery or as adjuvant therapy to potentiate or complement the effects of other approaches.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes as a promising cell-free therapy for knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA), as a degenerative disease, leads to high socioeconomic burdens and disability rates. The knee joint is typically the most affected and is characterized by progressive destruction of articular cartilage, subchondral bone remodeling, osteophyte formation and synovial inflammation. The current management of OA mainly focuses on symptomatic relief and does not help to slow down the advancement of disease. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their exosomes have garnered significant attention in regenerative therapy and tissue engineering areas. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos), as bioactive factor carriers, have promising results in cell-free therapy of OA. This study reviewed the application of various MSC-Exos for the OA treatment, along with exploring the potential underlying mechanisms. Moreover, current strategies and future perspectives for the utilization of engineered MSC-Exos, alongside their associated challenges, were also discussed.

Analysis of extracellular vesicle microRNA profiles reveals distinct blood and lymphatic endothelial cell origins

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial mediators of cell-to-cell communication in physiological and pathological conditions. Specifically, EVs released from the vasculature into blood were found to be quantitatively and qualitatively different in diseases compared to healthy states. However, our understanding of EVs derived from the lymphatic system is still scarce. In this study, we compared the mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression in blood vascular (BEC) and lymphatic (LEC) endothelial cells. After characterization of the EVs by fluorescence-triggered flow cytometry, nanoparticle tracking analysis and cryo-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) we utilized small RNA-sequencing to characterize miRNA signatures in the EVs and identify cell-type specific miRNAs in BEC and LEC. We found miRNAs specifically enriched in BEC and LEC on the cellular as well as the extracellular vesicle level. Our data provide a solid basis for further functional in vitro and in vivo studies addressing the role of EVs in the blood and lymphatic vasculature.

Current aspects of small extracellular vesicles in pain process and relief

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have been identified as a noteworthy paracrine mechanism of intercellular communication in diagnosing and managing neurological disorders. Current research suggests that sEVs play a pivotal role in the pathological progression of pain, emphasizing their critical function in the pathological progression of pain in acute and chronic pain models. By facilitating the transfer of diverse molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and metabolites, sEVs can modulate pain signaling transmission in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Furthermore, the unique molecules conveyed by sEVs in pain disorders indicate their potential as diagnostic biomarkers. The application of sEVs derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in regenerative pain medicine has emerged as a promising strategy for pain management. Moreover, modified sEVs have garnered considerable attention in the investigation of pathological processes and therapeutic interventions. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge regarding the involvement of sEVs in pain pathogenesis and treatment. Nevertheless, additional research is imperative to facilitate their clinical implementation. Schematic diagram of sEVs in the biogenesis, signal transmission, diagnosis, and treatment of pain disorders. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are secreted by multiple cells, loading with various biomolecules, such as miRNAs, transmembrane proteins, and amino acids. They selectively target other cells and regulating pain signal transmission. The composition of sEVs can serve as valuable biomarkers for pain diagnosis. In particular, mesenchymal stem cell-derived sEVs have shown promise as regenerative medicine for managing multiple pain disorders. Furthermore, by modifying the structure or contents of sEVs, they could potentially be used as a potent analgesic method.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Treatments for Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of the joints characterized by cartilage damage and severe pain. Despite various pharmacological and surgical interventions, current therapies fail to halt OA progression, leading to high morbidity and an economic burden. Thus, there is an urgent need for alternative therapeutic approaches that can effectively address the underlying pathophysiology of OA. Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) represent a new paradigm in OA treatment. MSC-EVs are small membranous particles released by MSCs during culture, both in vitro and in vivo. They possess regenerative properties and can attenuate inflammation, thereby promoting cartilage healing. Importantly, MSC-EVs have several advantages over MSCs as cell-based therapies, including lower risks of immune reactions and ethical issues. Researchers have recently explored different strategies, such as modifying EVs to enhance their delivery, targeting efficiency, and security, with promising results. This article reviews how MSC-EVs can help treat OA and how they might work. It also briefly discusses the benefits and challenges of using MSC-EVs and talks about the possibility of allogeneic and autologous MSC-EVs for medical use.

MSC-EVs alleviate osteoarthritis by regulating microenvironmental cells in the articular cavity and maintaining cartilage matrix homeostasis

Osteoarthritis (OA), a common cause of chronic articular cartilage degeneration, is the main cause of disability in older adults and severely affects quality of life. Multiple factors are involved in the pathogenesis of OA, resulting in imbalance in the homeostasis of the joint cavity microenvironment, which exacerbates the disease. Because of the deficiency of blood vessels and nerves in cartilage, existing therapies to promote cartilage healing are relatively ineffective. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-related therapies have achieved positive outcomes for the treatment of OA, and these beneficial effects have been confirmed to be largely mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs). MSC-derived EVs (MSC-EVs) have been demonstrated to participate in the regulation of chondrocyte function, to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, and to alleviate metabolic disorders of the extracellular matrix, thereby slowing the progression of OA. In addition, engineered MSC-EVs can enrich therapeutic molecules and optimize administration to enhance their therapeutic effects on OA. A thorough understanding of the endogenous properties of EVs and related engineering strategies could help researchers develop more precise control therapy for OA.

Conditioned Medium - Is it an Undervalued Lab Waste with the Potential for Osteoarthritis Management?

BACKGROUND

The approaches currently used in osteoarthritis (OA) are mainly short-term solutions with unsatisfactory outcomes. Cell-based therapies are still controversial (in terms of the sources of cells and the results) and require strict culture protocol, quality control, and may have side-effects. A distinct population of stromal cells has an interesting secretome composition that is underrated and commonly ends up as biological waste. Their unique properties could be used to improve the existing techniques due to protective and anti-ageing properties.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

In this review, we seek to outline the advantages of the use of conditioned media (CM) and exosomes, which render them superior to other cell-based methods, and to summarise current information on the composition of CM and their effect on chondrocytes.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

CM are obtainable from a variety of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) sources, such as adipose tissue, bone marrow and umbilical cord, which is significant to their composition. The components present in CMs include proteins, cytokines, growth factors, chemokines, lipids and ncRNA with a variety of functions. In most in vitro and in vivo studies CM from MSCs had a beneficial effect in enhance processes associated with chondrocyte OA pathomechanism.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

This review summarises the information available in the literature on the function of components most commonly detected in MSC-conditioned media, as well as the effect of CM on OA chondrocytes in in vitro culture. It also highlights the need to standardise protocols for obtaining CM, and to conduct clinical trials to transfer the effects obtained in vitro to human subjects.

Targeting Inflammation and Regeneration: Scaffolds, Extracellular Vesicles, and Nanotechnologies as Cell-Free Dual-Target Therapeutic Strategies

Osteoarthritis (OA) affects over 250 million people worldwide and despite various existing treatment strategies still has no cure. It is a multifactorial disease characterized by cartilage loss and low-grade synovial inflammation. Focusing on these two targets together could be the key to developing currently missing disease-modifying OA drugs (DMOADs). This review aims to discuss the latest cell-free techniques applied in cartilage tissue regeneration, since they can provide a more controllable approach to inflammation management than the cell-based ones. Scaffolds, extracellular vesicles, and nanocarriers can be used to suppress inflammation, but they can also act as immunomodulatory agents. This is consistent with the latest tissue engineering paradigm, postulating a moderate, controllable inflammatory reaction to be beneficial for tissue remodeling and successful regeneration.