Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Exosomes Facilitate Rotator Cuff Repair by Mediating Tendon-Derived Stem Cells

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> To evaluate the potential capability of adipose-derived stem cell exosomes (ADSC-exos) on rotator cuff repair by mediating the tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs) and explored the mechanism. <b>Methods:</b> First, we investigated the growth, survival and migration of TDSCs in the presence of ADSC-exos <i>in vitro</i>. Using a rat rotator cuff injury model to analyze the ability of the ADSC-exos to promote rotator cuff healing <i>in vivo</i>. <b>Results:</b> The hydrogel with ADSC-exos significantly improved the osteogenic and adipogenesis differentiation and enhanced the expression of <i>RUNX2</i>, <i>Sox-9</i>, <i>TNMD</i>, <i>TNC</i> and <i>Scx</i> and the mechanical properties of the articular portion. <b>Conclusion:</b> The ADSC-exos have the potential to promote the rotator cuff repair by mediating the TDSCs.