Tracking adipose-derived stem cell exosomes applied in a mouse crush injury model: insights from fluorescent labeling and spatial transcriptomics - an experimental study.

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)

Adipose-derived stem cell exosomes (ADSC-exos) are promising for nerve regeneration; however, their precise mechanisms remain unclear. This study employed fluorescent labeling and spatial transcriptomics to track the effects of ADSC-exos on crushed sciatic nerves in mice. Labeled exosomes were detected in spinal neurons and proximal nerve segments after application. Spatial transcriptomics revealed significant changes in gene expression, with an upregulation of neurons and Schwann cells and the downregulation of oligodendrocytes. The key pathways affected were prosaposin, pleiotrophin, fibroblast growth factor, secreted phosphoprotein 1, SLIT and NTRK-like family, member, vascular endothelial growth factor, and growth arrest-specific protein. ADSC-exo treatment enhanced cell-cell interactions, particularly between Schwann cells and astrocytes, thereby promoting a regenerative environment. Gene ontology analysis suggested improvements in metabolic activity, cell communication, and structural support. This study highlights the complex interplay between multiple cell types and signaling pathways involved in the nerve regeneration response to ADSC-exos. This comprehensive approach offers new perspectives on the role of ADSC-exos in nerve regeneration and paves the way for advanced regenerative strategies for peripheral nerve injuries.

Evidence level

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

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