Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles for disease therapy by regulating ferroptosis: focus on diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Ferroptosis is a novel form of programmed cell death, which has been demonstrated to play a pivotal role in various pathological processes due to its association with iron overload, lipid peroxidation, and dysregulation of the antioxidant system. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) have garnered significant attention as a promising cell-free therapeutic strategy for modulating ferroptosis. This article elucidates the biological characteristics of MSC-EVs and the molecular mechanisms underlying ferroptosis, with a focus on how MSC-EVs regulate ferroptosis through three key pathways: iron metabolism, lipid metabolism, and the antioxidant defense system. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of both natural and engineered MSC-EVs in treating ferroptosis-related diseases is discussed, particularly highlighting their efficacy in diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications. Finally, this article evaluates the challenges and opportunities in translating MSC-EVs-based ferroptosis modulation therapies into clinical applications, providing valuable insights for future research and therapeutic development.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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