Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes and skin photoaging: From basic research to practical application

Abstract

Background: Skin photoaging is a condition caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet irradiation, resulting in a variety of changes in the skin, such as capillary dilation, increased or absent pigmentation, dryness, sagging, and wrinkles. Stem cells possess a remarkable antioxidant capacity and the ability to proliferate, differentiate, and migrate, and their main mode of action is through paracrine secretion, with exosomes being the primary form of secretion. Stem cell-derived exosomes contain a variety of growth factors and cytokines and may have great potential to promote skin repair and delay skin ageing. Methods: This review focuses on the mechanisms of UV-induced skin photoaging, the research progress of stem cell exosomes against skin photoaging, emerging application approaches and limitations in the application of exosome therapy. Result: Exosomes derived from various stem cells have the potential to prevent skin photoaging. Conclusion: The combination with novel materials may be a key step for their practical application, which could be an important direction for future basic research and practical applications.