Exosomes For Brain Health

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.