Exosomes Derived From Pericytes Improve Microcirculation and Protect Blood–Spinal Cord Barrier After Spinal Cord Injury in Mice

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) are devastating, often leading to permanent paralysis. Current therapies are limited, and stem cell transplantation faces challenges. This study explores the potential of exosomes from pericytes, cells in the neurovascular unit, to improve outcomes after SCI in mice. Pericytes are closely related to endothelial cells, allowing for easier uptake of pericyte-derived exosomes by endothelial cells. The researchers transplanted these exosomes into mice with SCI to examine motor function restoration and the underlying mechanisms. The study found that exosomes derived from pericytes could reduce pathological changes, improve motor function, blood flow, and oxygen deficiency after SCI. These exosomes also enhanced the endothelial cells' ability to regulate blood flow and protect the blood-spinal cord barrier.

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  Pericyte-derived exosomes improve motor function recovery in mice after SCI, as measured by Basso Mouse Scale (BMS) scores.
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  These exosomes reduce lesion size and cell apoptosis after spinal cord injury, as evidenced by HE, LFB, Nissl, and TUNEL staining.
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  Pericyte exosomes ameliorate microcirculation of the spinal cord after SCI by promoting blood flow and improving endothelial function.