Exosomes are extracellular vesicles or small fluid-filled sacs that begin in many different types of cells in the body, including stem cells. Exosomes carry genetic information and proteins to cells throughout your body, as well as create paths for communication between cells. These messenger cells have the ability to release growth factors and other beneficial processes.
Exosomes offer a variety of benefits, including the ability to regenerate tissue, control inflammation, repair injuries, and support regenerative therapies to treat certain diseases.
At VitaLab, we sometimes refer to exosomes as “next level stem cells” because they are the active ingredient that is responsible for the regenerative benefits of stem cells and also offer improved efficacy. Exosomes are sometimes preferred to stem cells because of less inflammatory reaction, better outcomes, and lower cost.
We participate with leading researchers around the country to offer exosomes and stem cell therapies to eligible participants who are interested in being part of research studies which are testing the outcomes of these therapies.
PRP and Exosome Treatment
Both platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and exosomes can help to rejuvenate tissues for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
When it comes to the PRP/PRF process, a small amount of your blood will be drawn from your arm. Then your blood will be placed into a machine called a centrifuge, which will spin to separate the protein-rich- plasma from the rest of the elements of the blood. Platelets are then extracted, and the sample is concentrated, creating what is called platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
In cases where PRP or exosomes are being used for regenerative purposes, they are injected directly into the injured ligament, muscle, joint, or tendon to promote healing.
For aesthetic purposes, PRP or exosomes will be spread onto your face, and microneedling will be performed to help your face absorb the proteins. To execute microneedling, a special pen-like tool with many small needles on the end will be moved across the skin, creating micro-wounds. These micro-wounds stimulate the body’s natural healing response, kick-starting the creation of collagen as well. Overall, this combined procedure encourages cell turnover for tighter, smoother, fuller skin.
Schedule Your Appointment
For more information regarding stem cell therapy and exosomes at our San Diego, CA office, contact VitaLab today! Your first step toward treatment will be to schedule a consultation during which your clinician will create a personalized treatment plan for you.
Can stem cells cure aging?
While no one can cure or fully stop time, there are regenerative therapies that can help the body repair and regenerate. It is commonly appreciated that the reason stem cells are effective is because they put out packets of information, called exosomes, which tell the surrounding cells to start behaving like young stem cells and activate repair and regeneration processes within the cells. Stem cells can be harvested from a persons own bone marrow, fat, or other tissues, but stem cells from these autologous sources are only a potent as the persons age. Exosomes are a cell-free biologic product that is derived from mesenchymal stem cells which are multipotent and able to have a paracrine effect on the surrounding cells telling them to behave like younger cells. This addresses cellular aging.
How can I stop my face from aging?
Stem cells, PRP, and exosomes all work in similar ways to address aging skin. When these therapies are delivered properly, such as with microneedling, they send messages to the existing skin cells telling them to repair and regenerate. Your own skin cells then start producing more collagen and elastin and other factors that present in higher levels when we are young. Stem cell therapies like exosomes help the cells behave like younger cells, resulting in more youthful appearing skin.
What is stem cell Microneedling?
Microneedling is a therapy that can be done to the skin or scalp. A special medical device with many tiny needles is used to create precise millimeter deep punctures in the skin. By itself, this micro-injury stimulates a healing reaction. Combined with PRP or exosomes, it becomes a very efficient stem cell treatment because the exosomes can be delivered to the proper layers of skin, stimulating repair and rejuvenation. Your own cells are stimulated by the exosomes to produce more collagen, elastin, and other growth factors that yield younger, healthier appearing skin.
Can stem cells make you look younger?
Stem cell therapies like PRP or exosomes do indeed help you look younger because they stimulate new collagen production, tissue repair, and cellular healing at deeper layers below the skin.
Can stem cells regrow hair?
Yes! Stem cell therapies are well-known for hair regeneration. Both PRP and exosomes can be injected or microneedled into the scalp to stimulate hair regeneration. It is typically done every 4-6 weeks for at least 3 treatments, depending on the amount of hair loss that has occurred.
What is a stem cell face lift?
Sometimes called a Vampire facial, stem cell therapies like exosomes can be injected or microneedled into the face to stimulate regeneration of collagen, elastin, and healthy blood flow. It is a non-surgical approach to facial rejuvenation.
What are exosomes exactly?
Exosomes are nanoparticles that come from stem cells and carry intracellular messages to regulate regenerative processes such as stopping inflammation and stimulating tissue repair. They may be the holy grail of anti-aging and restorative therapeutics, as well as the basis for future biologic pharmaceuticals. Some of the applications for which exosomes are being investigated include hair restoration & wrinkle reduction, orthopedic repair, immune modulation for COVID and chronic post-viral syndromes, neuro-regeneration, and more. What excites me most about exosomes is their potential role in preventing age-related cognitive decline, physical fitness decline, and neurodegeneration.
What are exosomes made of?
Exosomes are derived from mesenchymal stem cells which are abundant in placenta. MSC-derived exosomes are especially important as they carry intracellular messages that tell cells of all types (i.e they are pluripotent) to start repairing and regenerating.
What is exosomes Therapy?
Here are some research studies if you want to read more about the scientific basis of exosome therapy.n1. Exosome Therapy: a new frontier in regenerative medicine. 2021. PMC8100822n2. This study discussed exosome therapy in neuroregeneration: Jordan S, Pain Physician. 2020 Mar;23(2):229-233. PubMed PMID: 32214305.3 n3. This research study describes exosome therapy in skin: PMID: 29434006n4. This research study describes exosome therapy for orthopedics and osteoarthritis: PMID: 27871993n5. This study discusses exosome therapy with regard to immune modulation: PMID: 32392899n6. Nassar W, El-Ansary M, Sabry D, et al. Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells derived extracellular vesicles can safely ameliorate the progression of chronic kidney diseases. Biomaterials Research 2016; 20(1):21.
Are exosomes better than stem cells?
Exosomes are derived from stem cells. Bone marrow, adipose, and mesenchymal stem cells are the most common sources of exosomes. Exosomes are generally agreed to be the reason why stem cell therapies work. However, unlike stem cell therapies, exosomes are acellular and thus avoid the risk of cell therapies. Exosomes are also more reliable and consistent; they are isolated under highly controlled sterile laboratory conditions and carefully analyzed so we know the potency and sterility of each batch. In summary, exosomes seem to be better than stem cells because they are safer, more reliable, and the potency can be quantified and selected for the individuals needs.
Are exosomes FDA approved?
Exosomes are currently an unapproved therapy, which means the FDA has not yet reviewed the research on exosomes one way or the other for the treatment or cure of any specific disease or medical condition. The use of exosomes is unregulated and has not been approved or cleared by the Food and Drug Administration. Nevertheless under the supervision of a doctor, you can opt to have this treatment. As such, if you are requesting this treatment, and agree to undergo the treatment, be aware that you are undergoing a procedure that is not regulated by government agencies. If you choose to have this treatment, you will be given opportunity to ask about the risks and benefits and have all of your questions answered before you give consent.
What is exosome therapy for hair loss?
Exosomes can be used for hair restoration. Exosomes are microneedled directly into the scalp and hair line. 1 unit treats about 7-10 cm2 of scalp. It is repeated every 4-6 weeks until desired results are achieved.
RECENT BLOGS AND NEWS
Exosome Therapy and How It Can Benefit You
Exosome therapy is a great option for when you want to restore your skin and look younger. I sometimes refer to exosomes as next…
