Hair loss is a common medical problem. In this study, we investigated the proliferation, migration, and growth factor expression of human dermal papilla (DP) cells in the presence or absence of treatment with mesenchymal stem cell extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs). In addition, we tested the efficacy of MSC-EV treatment on hair growth in an animal model. MSC-EV treatment increased DP cell proliferation and migration, and elevated the levels of Bcl-2, phosphorylated Akt and ERK. In addition; DP cells treated with MSC-EVs displayed increased expression and secretion of VEGF and IGF-1. Intradermal injection of MSC-EVs into C57BL/6 mice promoted the conversion from telogen to anagen and increased expression of wnt3a, wnt5a and versican was demonstrated. The first time our results suggest that MSC-EVs have a potential to activate DP cells, prolonged survival, induce growth factor activation in vitro, and promotes hair growth in vivo.

A new bioluminescent reporter system to study the biodistribution of systematically injected tumor-derived bioluminescent extracellular vesicles in mice

Probiotics are living microbes that play a significant role in protecting the host in various ways. Gut microbiota is one of the key players in maintaining homeostasis. Cancer is considered one of the most significant causes of death worldwide. Although cancer treatment has received much attention in recent years, the number of people suffering from neoplastic syndrome continues to increase. Despite notable improvements in the field of cancer therapy, tackling cancer has been challenging due to the multiple properties of cancer cells and their ability to evade the immune system. Probiotics alter the immunological and cellular responses by enhancing the epithelial barrier and stimulating the production of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticarcinogenic compounds, thereby reducing cancer burden and growth. The present review focuses on the various mechanisms underlying the role of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of cancer.

CXCR4, the stromal cell-derived factor-1 receptor, plays an important role in the migration of hematopoietic progenitor/stem cells to injured and inflamed areas. Noninvasive cell tracking methods could be useful for monitoring cell fate. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the efficacy of an intravenous infusion of genetically engineered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) overexpressing CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) to home to the tumor, by optical imaging. We constructed a retroviral vector containing CXCR with dual reporter genes, eGFP and Fluc2, under the control of an EF1α promoter (pBABE-EF1α-CXCR4-eGFP-IRES-Fluc2). We also developed an eGFP-Fluc2 construct in the Retro-X retroviral vector (Retro-X-eGFP-Fluc2). MSCs were transduced with retroviruses to generate CXCR4-overexpressing MSCs (MSC-CXCR4/Fluc2) and MSCs (MSC/Fluc2). CXCR4 mRNA and protein expression was confirmed by RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively, and it was higher in MSC-CXCR4/Fluc2 than in naive MSCs. eGFP expression was confirmed by confocal microscopy. The transfected MSC-CXCR4/Fluc2 cells showed higher migratory capacity than naive MSCs observed in Transwell migration assay. The in vivo migration of CXCR4-overexpressing MSCs to MDAMB231/Rluc tumor model by BLI imaging was also confirmed. Intravenous delivery of genetically modified MSCs overexpressing CXCR4 with a Fluc2 reporter gene may be a useful, noninvasive BLI imaging tool for tracking cell fate.

Over the past few decades, various forms of platelet concentrates have evolved with significant clinical utility. The newer generation products, including leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) and advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF), have shown superior biological properties in musculoskeletal regeneration than the first-generation concentrates, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and plasma rich in growth factors. These newer platelet concentrates have a complete matrix of physiological fibrin that acts as a scaffold with a three-dimensional (3D) architecture. Further, it facilitates intercellular signaling and migration, thereby promoting angiogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic activities. A-PRF with higher leukocyte inclusion possesses antimicrobial activity than the first generations. Due to the presence of enormous amounts of growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines that are released, A-PRF has the potential to replicate the various physiological and immunological factors of wound healing. In addition, there are more neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages, all of which secrete essential chemotactic molecules. As a result, both L-PRF and A-PRF are used in the management of musculoskeletal conditions, such as chondral injuries, tendinopathies, tissue regeneration, and other sports-related injuries. In addition to this, its applications have been expanded to include the fields of reconstructive cosmetic surgery, wound healing in diabetic patients, and maxillofacial surgeries.