Background

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• Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the ability to transform into virtually any cells within our body.
• Stem cells have the ability to self-renew through paracrine effects from the release of EVs and bioactive molecules

EVs include a variety of cytosolic proteins, lipids, growth factors, and nucleic acids (mRNA, miRNA, DNA), and are secreted by all cells.

• EVs are important factors in driving intercellular signals and communication via receptor-ligand interaction.
• EVs derived from stem cells have been shown to promote tissue regeneration and repair in a variety of settings thanks to the paracrine activity of EVs, promoting cell survival, controlling inflammation, repairing injury and enhancing healing process (mainly through miRNA).
• EVs derived from immune cells are even being explored as a potential cancer therapy as they contain tumor antigens that can stimulate an immune response against cancer cells.

 – Stem cells are known for their multipotency (ability to transform into other cells) and their ability for self-renewal. This means that they can undergo numerous cell divisions and retain their stem cell identity. In traditional stem cell therapy, allogenic stem cells are injected into the patient for their respective diseases, who generally has to continue to take immune suppressing drugs. 

 – Exosomes are small, membrane-bound vesicles that are secreted by many types of cells. They carry a variety of bioactive molecules, such as proteins, lipids, growth factors, and nucleic acids, and can be taken up by neighboring or distant cells, where they can modulate recipient cell activity.– Due to their ability to transfer bioactive molecules and signals between cells and tissues, exosomes can potentially be used in:

• Regenerative medicine: Exosomes derived from stem cells have been shown to promote tissue regeneration and repair in a variety of settings, including heart disease, brain injury, and bone defects. These exosomes contain growth factors and other signaling molecules that can stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation, and promote angiogenesis and tissue remodeling.
• Cancer therapy: Exosomes derived from immune cells have been explored as a potential cancer therapy, as they can contain tumor antigens that can stimulate an immune response against cancer cells. Additionally, exosomes can be engineered to carry therapeutic payloads, such as siRNA, miRNA, or chemotherapeutic agents, that can selectively target cancer cells.