Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Membrane-Coated Mitochondria Restore Tendon Stromal Cell Function Through Metabolic...

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science
• Mitochondrial Biology

Background:

• Achilles tendon rupture results in poor functional recovery due to limited self-healing.
• Mitochondrial dysfunction in tendon stromal cells (TSCs) is a key factor in Achilles tendon injury progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop adipose-derived stromal cell (ADSC) membrane-coated mitochondria (Mito-NPs) to target mitochondrial dysfunction in TSCs.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of Mito-NPs for tendon repair.

Main Methods:

• ADSC membrane-coated mitochondria (Mito-NPs) were developed and characterized.
• Mito-NPs were tested in lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory TSCs to assess their effect on mitochondrial function and cell phenotype.
• Mito-NPs were encapsulated in a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive hydrogel (Mito-NPs@HG) and implanted into rat Achilles tendon injuries.

Main Results:

• Mito-NPs enhanced oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial metabolic homeostasis in inflammatory TSCs.
• Mito-NPs normalized TSC functional phenotypes, including reducing inflammation and improving collagen synthesis.
• Mito-NPs@HG implantation in rats improved gait function, reduced local inflammation, and promoted histological tendon repair.

Conclusions:

• ADSC membrane-coated mitochondria effectively rescue TSC dysfunction and facilitate tendon regeneration.
• Mito-NPs represent a promising translational strategy for treating Achilles tendon injuries.