Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Therapeutic Efficacy and Bioengineering Applications

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) have emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) due to their anti-inflammatory properties, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration potential. However, challenges in optimizing their production, efficacy, and understanding their therapeutic mechanisms remain. MSC-EVs, particularly those derived from bone marrow and umbilical mesenchymal stem cells, have shown significant therapeutic potential in both preclinical and clinical studies. Although the advantages of MSC-EVs over traditional therapies, such as low immunogenicity and non-invasive administration, limitations in their targeting capabilities and stability in fibrotic tissues impede full clinical translation. This review succinctly outlines a comparative analysis of MSC-EVs derived from various sources, such as bone marrow, adipose tissue, perinatal tissues, dental tissues, olfactory mucosa, and hair follicles in IBD treatment. Additionally, the applications of bioengineered MSC-EVs, including their use as nanodrug carriers and in targeted therapies, are discussed, with an emphasis on the future potential of integrating MSC-EVs with biomaterials like hydrogels. Finally, the current challenges and potential solutions for translating MSC-EVs from bench to bedside are discussed. This review aims to elucidate the therapeutic roles of MSC-EVs in IBD and inspire the development of innovative tissue-engineering materials.