Histological Study on the Potential Role of Exosomes Released from Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Healing of Cutaneous Wound in Adult Male Albino Rats

Abstract Introduction Skin wounds are frequent injuries that cause heavy financial burdens at both the familial and societal levels with physical and mental suffering. Recently, the attention of researchers has been attracted to the use of exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a novel non-cell therapy. Aim To study the potential effects of exosomes derived from MSCs on the healing of cutaneous skin wound in adult male albino rats. Materials and methods 47 adult male albino rats were used in this study. They were divided into three groups: group I (control group), group II (cutaneous wound group, that were left for spontaneous healing), and group III (cutaneous wound treated with intravenous injection of exosomes). Each group was subdivided into subgroup a (lasted for two weeks) and subgroup b (lasted for three weeks). A full thickness skin wound was generated through surgery on the back of rats in groups II and III. Exosomes were isolated from bone marrow derived-MSCs through ultracentrifugation. Then, they were characterized by transmission electron microscope. At the end of experiment, skin specimens were collected from all rats and were subjected to proper histological techniques. Results This study showed that MSCs-derived exosomes have significantly improved wound healing, accelerated wound closure, promoted the reepithelialization and the recovery of skin appendages as well as enhancing the organization of newly formed collagen fibers. Conclusion Intravenous injection of MSCs-derived exosomes is effective in healing of full thickness skin wound.