Stem cell-derived exosomes in tissue regeneration of oral and maxillofacial region: A systematic review

BACKGROUND: Oral and maxillofacial diseases are often accompanied by tissue defects and damages, which are difficult to repair and affect patients both physically and psychologically as well as daily life. Recent 5 years studies have proved that stem cell-derived exosomes possess a broad clinical application in regenerative dentistry by promoting hard and soft tissue regeneration, angiogenesis, nerve repair, and wound healing, inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis, and modulating immune responses. The purpose of this review is to sum up the current state of research on stem cell-derived exosomes in periodontal regeneration and to discuss the current challenges and future directions. METHODS: This review article was conducted using electronic databases such as PubMed and Web of Science. The search included studies published up until January 1, 2025. RESULTS: Stem cell-derived exosomes are a kind of membrane vesicles that encapsulate proteins, RNAs, and other substances, which are one of the important strategies for tissue regeneration and repair. Stem cell-derived exosomes play an important role in the field of periodontal regeneration, including dental pulp, periodontium, jawbone, temporomandibular joint, maxillofacial soft tissue, and nerve. Mechanistically, stem cell-derived exosomes alleviate oral and maxillofacial diseases by promoting tissue regeneration, osteogenesis, odontogenesis, angiogenesis, axonal regeneration, and suppressing inflammation. CONCLUSION: Stem cell-derived exosomes may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for oral and maxillofacial diseases.