General skin cells via exosome-mediated cargo delivery

General skin cells via exosome-mediated cargo delivery is a therapeutic approach utilizing extracellular vesicles (EVs) to transport bioactive molecules to cutaneous cells. Unlike traditional molecular targets such as receptors or enzymes, this represents a delivery modality that targets cell populations like keratinocytes and fibroblasts to modulate their physiological state. Exosomes, typically 30-150 nm in size, carry a complex cargo of microRNAs, proteins, and lipids that can promote tissue repair, suppress inflammation, and stimulate extracellular matrix production (Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2021; 19: 328). This system is particularly relevant in regenerative medicine and dermatology for treating chronic wounds and inflammatory conditions. The specificity of delivery is often mediated by surface proteins like tetraspanins (CD9, CD63, CD81) which facilitate docking and uptake by target cells (Theranostics, 2018; 8(21): 5812-5827). While highly promising for its low immunogenicity and high biocompatibility, the primary challenges include the heterogeneity of exosome populations and the need for standardized manufacturing protocols.

Other names

Exosome-mediated skin therapyExtracellular vesicle-based delivery to skinMSC-exosome skin deliveryEV-mediated cutaneous cargo delivery

Exosomes encapsulate therapeutic cargo (miRNAs, proteins, lipids) and deliver it to recipient skin cells such as keratinocytes and fibroblasts via endocytosis, macropinocytosis, or direct membrane fusion, thereby modulating intracellular signaling and gene expression (Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 2020; 8: 601).