Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles for the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome

Abstract

Abstract Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a serious and potentially fatal acute inflammatory lung condition which currently has no specific treatments targeting its pathophysiology. However, mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to have very promising therapeutic potential, and recently, it has been established that their effect is largely due to the transfer of extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs have been shown to transfer a variety of substances such as mRNA, miRNA, and even organelles such as mitochondria in order to ameliorate ARDS in preclinical models. In addition, the fact that they have been proven to have the same effect as their parent cells combined with their numerous advantages over whole cell administration means that they are a promising candidate for clinical application that merits further research. Significance statement Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are being actively explored as an alternative to whole-cell therapy. Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a devastating clinical condition with high mortality rate and no pharmacological treatment; therefore, novel therapies for this condition are critically needed. This review discusses preclinical studies where the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) EVs was investigated in models of lung injury. Evidence suggests that MSC EVs demonstrate potent protective effects mediated through a variety of mechanisms related to the transfer of EVs cargo to the recipient cells. Further research into the mechanism of action, biodistribution, standardization, and biomanufacturing is needed to facilitate clinical translation of this exciting new cell therapy product.