Collagen-Based Hydrogel Loaded With Microspheres Encapsulated With Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived Exosomes...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) causes significant sensorimotor deficits.
• Current interventions for TSCI have limited efficacy.
• There is a critical need for advanced therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the therapeutic potential of collagen-based hydrogel (CbH) loaded with placental mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs)-derived exosomes for TSCI recovery in a rat model.
• To evaluate the effects of this combined therapy on pathological and functional outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Sixty rats with TSCI were divided into four groups: TSCI, CbH, Microsphere, and CbH + Microsphere.
• Evaluations included immunohistochemistry, molecular analysis of cytokines, oxidative stress markers, stereological assessments, and behavioral testing (BBB scores).

Main Results:

• The CbH + Microsphere group showed significantly reduced lesion volume, apoptosis, and improved neuron preservation.
• This group exhibited increased antioxidant enzymes (GSH, SOD, CAT) and IL-10, with decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) and MDA.
• Markedly improved functional recovery (BBB scores) was observed in the CbH + Microsphere group compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Collagen-based hydrogel encapsulated with microspheres containing PMSCs-derived exosomes is a promising strategy for TSCI treatment.
• This approach effectively mitigates injury progression and improves pathological and behavioral deficits.
• The findings support the use of this novel biomaterial for enhancing recovery from spinal cord injury.