Cell biology

Decorin

Tendon

Biology

Mesenchymal stem cell

Stem cell

Extracellular matrix

Regeneration (biology)

Achilles tendon

Immunology

Proteoglycan

Internal medicine

Medicine

Biglycan

Adipose tissue

Wound healing

Pathology

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Healing of ruptured tendons remains a clinical challenge because of its slow progress and relatively weak mechanical force at an early stage. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have therapeutic potential for tissue regeneration. In this study, we isolated EVs from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and evaluated their ability to promote tendon regeneration. Our results indicated that ADSC-EVs significantly enhanced the proliferation and migration of tenocytes in vitro. To further study the roles of ADSC-EVs in tendon regeneration, ADSC-EVs were used in Achilles tendon repair in rabbits. The mechanical strength, histology, and protein expression in the injured tendon tissues significantly improved 4 weeks after ADSC-EV treatment. Decorin and biglycan were significantly upregulated in comparison to the untreated controls. In summary, ADSC-EVs stimulated the proliferation and migration of tenocytes and improved the mechanical strength of repaired tendons, suggesting that ADSC-EV treatment is a potential highly potent therapeutic strategy for tendon injuries.

Extracellular Vesicles of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Promote the Healing of Traumatized Achilles Tendons