Exosomes and Their MicroRNA Cargo: New Players in Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

Abstract

Peripheral nerve injury is a major clinical problem and often results in a poor functional recovery. Despite obvious clinical need, treatment strategies have been largely suboptimal. In the nervous system, exosomes, which are nanosized extracellular vesicles, play a critical role in mediating intercellular communication. More specifically, microRNA carried by exosomes are involved in various key processes such as nerve and vascular regeneration, and exosomes originating from Schwann cells, macrophages, and mesenchymal stem cells can promote peripheral nerve regeneration. In this review, the current knowledge of exosomes’ and their miRNA cargo’s role in peripheral nerve regeneration are summarized. The possible future roles of exosomes in therapy and the potential for microRNA-containing exosomes to treat peripheral nerve injuries are also discussed.