Molecular and therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes on autoimmune diseases

Abstract

Autoimmune diseases are complex clinical conditions that present significant therapeutic challenges due to their intricate immunological mechanisms. Conventional treatment strategies, such as immunosuppressive drugs and anti-inflammatory therapies, often demonstrate limited efficacy and are associated with considerable side effects. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have attracted growing interest as a promising therapeutic approach, owing to their immunomodulatory properties and ability to promote tissue repair. However, the direct application of MSCs faces several limitations, including the risk of immunogenicity and difficulties in large-scale production. In this context MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos), nano-sized extracellular vesicles secreted by MSCs, have emerged as a compelling alternative to cell-based therapies. Enriched with proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, these exosomes exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Their primary mechanisms of action include enhancing the population of regulatory T cells, modulating macrophage polarization, and suppressing proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. The therapeutic potential of MSC-Exos extends beyond individual conditions, encompassing a wide range of autoimmune diseases. For instance in Behçet’s disease, they have been shown to regulate vasculitis and inflammatory processes by inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines and promoting endothelial cell regeneration. Moreover, MSC-Exos have demonstrated promising immunomodulatory effects in other autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Through mechanisms such as inflammation suppression, vascular repair, and the restoration of immune homeostasis, MSC-Exos represent a versatile and innovative approach to autoimmune disease therapy. This review explored the molecular and therapeutic effects of MSCs and MSC-Exos in autoimmune diseases, with particular emphasis on their clinical potential in Behçet’s disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

Keywords: Mesenchymal stem cells; Exosomes; Autoimmune diseases; Immunomodulation; Behçet’s disease; Systemic lupus erythematosus; Rheumatoid arthritis; Multiple sclerosis

Core Tip: Autoimmune diseases result from dysregulated immune responses directed against self-antigens, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived exosomes have demonstrated significant potential as therapeutic agents due to their strong immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. MSC-derived exosomes modulate immune responses by regulating cytokine secretion, suppressing inflammatory cell activity, and promoting immune tolerance. Their advantages, including low immunogenicity and the ability to cross biological barriers, make them a promising cell-free therapy for autoimmune. Even though preclinical and clinical findings are encouraging, further research is required to standardize protocols, optimize therapeutic efficacy, and ensure long-term safety.