Exosomes are stem cell “messengers” and carry important information between stem cells and the tissue or organ to be repaired. They regulate function by telling cells how and when to react. Exosomes may be added to stem cell therapy to stimulate faster tissue regeneration.

What conditions might be improved with the addition of exosomes to stem cell therapy?

Chronic degenerative diseases may be improved by adding exosomes to stem cell therapy, including:

Joint conditions and diseases
Inflammatory diseases
Tendon and ligament conditions and diseases

Exosomes are very small molecules and can, in fact, pass through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). As such, they are also being investigated as a source of therapy to treat brain injuries and stroke. Some researchers have come to believe that it is the exosomes, rather than the stem cells themselves (except insofar as the stem cells are a source for the production of exosomes) that actually have the restorative and regenerative capabilities.

Man running outside with ocean in the background

How are exosomes produced?

Exosomes are secreted by most cell types, which is why they have the ability to communicate between those cells to other related cells in the body. As potent and useful as they are, they are only therapeutic when secreted by healthy cells. If the cells from which they are produced are diseased, they will transmit that genetic information to other cells.

Exosomes FAQ's

What is a mesenchymal stem cell?

A mesenchymal stem cell is a stem cell typically found in bone marrow but can be found in other sources of stem cells, such as cord blood. They may become differentiated into bone cells, cartilage cells, muscles cells, and fat cells.

What is the blood-brain barrier?

The blood-brain barrier protects the brain by preventing pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, from passing from the blood stream into the brain and spinal cord. It is comprised of specialized endothelial cells, which are cells that line the inside surface of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels.

What are the benefits of using exosomes derived from placental stem cells?

These new, embryonic cells are as yet undifferentiated and can proliferate to become virtually any type of cell. Additionally, they are a “blank canvas” in terms of other types of factors native to every cell. Exosomes extracted from a healthy placenta should be free of potentially “dangerous” messages. They should:

Not have the DNA of the contributing stem cell
Not have the blood type of the mesenchymal stem cell
Not cause inflammation (exosomes are, in fact, anti-inflammatory)
Have an extremely low risk for rejection