Therapeutic Potential of Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Cardioprotection and Myocardium Repair

Stem cell therapy research has demonstrated very promising results for regeneration of ischemic myocardium. The role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the restoration of cell structure and function is not fully understood. EVs are relatively complex biological entities that contain a range of biological molecules, including proteins, mRNA, and miRs. EVs are rapidly internalized by recipient cells and can activate multiple cardioprotective pathways through transfer of their cargo. Study of this critical component of endogenous repair therefore has the potential to provide not only insight into the mechanisms for existing therapies, but also more predictive information on new and more powerful cell-based treatments with fewer clinical pitfalls.