Mesenchymal stem cell secretome and extracellular vesicles (MSC-secretome/EVs)

The Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) secretome and extracellular vesicles (EVs) represent a complex therapeutic modality rather than a single molecular target. This entity functions by delivering a diverse array of bioactive molecules—including cytokines, growth factors, and microRNAs—to multiple endogenous receptors and cell types within the host environment (Vizoso et al., 2017). By acting on various signaling pathways, the MSC secretome promotes immunomodulation, tissue repair, and anti-apoptotic effects, making it a potent candidate for treating inflammatory and degenerative diseases (Harrell et al., 2019). Extracellular vesicles, such as exosomes, play a crucial role in this process by facilitating the horizontal transfer of genetic material and proteins to recipient cells, thereby altering their functional state (Thery et al., 2018). While traditional pharmacology focuses on single-target interactions, the MSC secretome leverages a multi-targeted approach to restore homeostasis in complex disease microenvironments. Consequently, it is being investigated for clinical applications in conditions like myocardial infarction, graft-versus-host disease, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (Kupcova Skalnikova, 2013).

Other names

Mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned mediumMSC-CMMSC-derived extracellular vesiclesMSC-EVsMSC-derived exosomesParacrine factors

Activation of multiple endogenous signaling pathways via paracrine factors and extracellular vesicle-mediated cargo delivery