The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Synovial Injuries of Athletic Joints

Synovial membrane injury, which profoundly affects joint structure and function, plays a pivotal role in the progression of joint diseases. When manifest clinically as pain, inflammation, joint stiffness, or function impairment, such injuries may eventually advance to degenerative changes, cartilage damage, or arthritis, which significantly diminishes patients' quality of life. In the field of joint regenerative medicine, particularly concerning sports-related synovial membrane injuries, extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from damaged synovial cells have emerged as a key research focus. These vesicles not only serve as indicators of synovial damage and inflammation, but may also be integral to the underlying pathophysiological processes of these injuries. EVs can influence crucial biological processes such as inflammatory response, cell proliferation, and fibrosis. Additionally, bioactive molecules within these vesicles, i.e., microRNAs, proteins, and metabolites, are intensively involved in the recovery and repair processes of joint injuries. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of their roles and mechanisms is essential for devising innovative therapeutic strategies and improving patient outcomes. This review seeks to elucidate the function of extracellular vesicles in synovial membrane injuries associated with sports and their potential clinical applications, aiming to advance therapeutic approaches and enhance the management of joint diseases.