The Tiny Couriers Changing Modern Medicine: How Exosomes Are Transforming Drug Delivery and Regenerative Therapies
Summary: Exosomes—nano-sized vesicles from cells—revolutionize regenerative medicine as biocompatible carriers for targeted drug delivery in wound healing, encapsulating miRNAs, proteins, and growth factors to cross barriers like the blood-brain barrier. In DFUs, exosome-loaded hydrogels deliver VEGF to boost angiogenesis, achieving 50% faster closure in preclinical models without immune rejection. Their low toxicity and scalability position exosomes as next-gen for chronic wounds, with clinical trials underway for scarless repair and personalized therapies.
Key Highlights:
- Exosomes: 30-150nm vesicles; carry cargo for cell communication; stable in blood.
- Wound Applications: Deliver miR-21 for fibroblast migration; VEGF for vascularization in DFUs.
- Advantages: Cross barriers; no immunogenicity; engineered for sustained release.
- Trials: Phase I for exosome hydrogels in ulcers; 60% improved granulation.
- Future: Personalized from patient stem cells; combination with CRISPR for gene editing.
Keywords: exosomes, regenerative therapies, drug delivery, DFU closure, nanocarriers