Mesenchymal Stem Cell Derived Exosomes: A New Hope for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease?

Cardiovascular disease is a major target for numerous experimental stem (progenitor) cell-based therapies. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from different sources confer regenerative effects in animal models of cardiovascular disease. Some of these investigations have proceeded into phase I and II clinical trials for limb ischemia, heart failure, and acute myocardial infarction. The rationale for MSC therapy is increasingly recognized on a secretion (paracrine) rather than differentiation mechanism. Recently, several groups have demonstrated that the “exosome ” is a secreted agent mediating MSC therapeutic efficacy. Unlike cell therapy, exosomes have no risk of aneuploidy, and a lower rate of immune rejection following allogeneic administration. In this short review, we will focus on the potential of using this novel therapeutic modality for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, particularly acute myocardial infarction. Key Words: Cardiovascular disease Exosome Mesenchyma