The Potential of Stem Cells and Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes in Treating Cardiovascular Diseases

In recent years, the cardiac protective mechanisms of stem cells have become a research focus. Increasing evidence has suggested that stem cells release vesicles, including exosomes and micro-vesicles. The content of these vesicles relies on an extracellular stimulus, and active ingredients are extensively being studied. Previous studies have confirmed that stem cell-derived exosomes have a cardiac protective function similar to that of stem cells, and promote angiogenesis, decrease apoptosis, and respond to stress. Compared to stem cells, exosomes are more stable without aneuploidy and immune rejection, and may be a promising and effective therapy for cardiovascular diseases. In this review, the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of stem cells and stem cell-derived exosomes are discussed.