Exosomes derived from stem cells from apical papilla promote craniofacial soft tissue regeneration by enhancing Cdc42-mediated vascularization

Abstract Background Reconstruction of complex critical-size defects (CSD) in the craniofacial region is a major challenge, and soft tissue regeneration crucial determining therapeutic outcomes CSD. Stem cells from apical papilla (SCAP) are neural crest-derived mesenchymal stem (MSCs) that homologous to represent promising source for regeneration. Exosomes, which contain compound bioactive compounds, key factors cell paracrine action. However, roles exosomes derived SCAP (SCAP-Exo) not fully understood. Here, we explored effects underlying mechanisms SCAP-Exo on CSD maxillofacial tissue. Methods were isolated identified by transmission electron microscopy nanoparticle tracking analysis. The wound healing vascularization detected measuring area performing histological immunofluorescence analysis palatal gingival mice. Real-time live-cell imaging functional assays used assess biological functions endothelial (ECs). Furthermore, molecular SCAP-Exo-mediated EC angiogenesis vitro tested staining, Western blot, pull-down assays. Finally, vivo experiments carried out verify whether could affect through division cycle 42 (Cdc42). Results We found promoted enhancing early phase improved angiogenic capacity ECs vitro. Mechanistically, elevated migration improving cytoskeletal reorganization via Cdc42 signalling. revealed transferred into cytoplasm protein be reused directly recipient ECs, resulted activation Cdc42-dependent filopodium formation elevation ECs. Conclusion This study demonstrated had superior effect effectively These data provide new option cell-free approach optimize clinic.