Dental Pulp Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Exhibit Regenerative Potential
ABSTRACT
Potential of Dental Pulp Stem Cell Exosomes: Unveiling miRNA-Driven Regenerative Mechanisms.
International Dental Journal. 2025 Apr;75(2):415-425. doi: 10.1016/j.identj.2024.08.019.
Chansaenroj J, Kornsuthisopon C, Chansaenroj A, Samaranayake LP, Fan Y, Osathanon T.
Author information
Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Department of Oral Biology and Regenerative Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, affiliated academic institution.
Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
BACKGROUND: Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) possess strong regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. Recent research has shown that many of these therapeutic effects may be mediated through exosomes, small extracellular vesicles that transport biologically active molecules including microRNAs (miRNAs), proteins, and lipids.
METHODS: The authors reviewed current evidence regarding DPSC-derived exosomes, with a particular focus on their miRNA cargo and the molecular mechanisms through which they influence tissue repair and regeneration. The review examined their applications across multiple regenerative medicine fields.
RESULTS: Studies showed that DPSC-derived exosomes can regulate inflammation, promote angiogenesis, support neural regeneration, enhance bone formation, and stimulate tissue repair. The review highlighted the role of exosomal miRNAs in controlling cellular signaling pathways involved in regeneration. Compared with cell-based therapies, exosomes may offer advantages including lower immunogenicity, easier storage, and reduced safety concerns associated with stem cell transplantation.
CONCLUSIONS: This review showed that DPSC-derived exosomes possess significant regenerative potential and may represent a promising cell-free alternative to stem cell therapy. Future studies may help advance exosome-based therapies toward clinical applications in regenerative medicine.
PMID: 39368923
PMCID: PMC11976581
DOI: 10.1016/j.identj.2024.08.019