Skin aging and wound healing are the result of intricate and interconnected processes involving chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, cellular senescence and extracellular matrix degradation. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes are rich in bioactive components, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression and key signaling pathways critical for maintaining skin homeostasis. This article reviews the current evidence regarding the roles of MSC-derived exosomal miRNAs (MSC-Exo-miRNAs) in cutaneous repair and rejuvenation. Specific exosomal miRNAs are analyzed for their ability to modulate inflammatory responses, promote fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, enhance angiogenesis, and facilitate keratinocyte migration and re-epithelialization. Their roles in regulating key signaling pathways are discussed in the context of skin regeneration and aging, including nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), PI3K/Akt, TGF-β/Smad, Wnt/β-catenin, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Additionally, emerging engineering strategies aimed at optimizing miRNA cargo loading, improving delivery efficiency, and advancing clinical translation are highlighted. Overall, MSC-Exo-miRNAs represent a promising cell-free therapeutic strategy for skin repair and rejuvenation; however, further mechanistic investigations and rigorous clinical studies are necessary to fully realize their translational potential.
Jijun Hao (Mon,) studied this question.
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