Open AccessExtracellular vesicles — new tool for joint repair and regeneration
Author(s) -
Jos Malda,
Janneke Boere,
Chris H.A. van de Lest,
P. R. van Weeren,
Marca H. M. Wauben
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
nature reviews. rheumatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.683
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1759-4804
pISSN - 1759-4790
DOI - 10.1038/nrrheum.2015.170
Subject(s) - regeneration (biology) , extracellular matrix , medicine , synovial fluid , microbiology and biotechnology , regenerative medicine , microvesicles , extracellular vesicles , synovial joint , cartilage , homeostasis , microrna , articular cartilage , osteoarthritis , pathology , biology , stem cell , anatomy , gene , biochemistry , alternative medicine
Cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), present in synovial fluid and cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM), are involved in joint development and in the regulation of joint homeostasis. Although the exact function of EVs in these processes remains incompletely defined, the knowledge already acquired in this field suggests a role for these EVs as biomarkers of joint disease, and as a new tool to restore joint homeostasis and enhance articular tissue regeneration. In addition to direct injection of therapeutic EVs into the target site, surface coating of scaffolds and embedding of EVs in hydrogels might also lead to novel therapeutic possibilities. Based on the existing literature of EVs in synovial fluid and articular tissues, and investigation of the molecular factors (including microRNAs) active in joint homeostasis (or during its disturbance), we postulate novel perspectives for the implementation of EVs as a regenerative medicine approach in joint repair.