Uncovering the Secret of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Secretome: From Extracellular Vesicle Cargo to Neuroprotection

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), also known as multipotent stromal cells or mesenchymal stromal cells, support cell growth and viability through the secretion of trophic factors and immunomodulatory molecules. Their secretome exerts cytoprotective effects in the brain, although the mechanisms underlying MSC-mediated neurological recovery remain poorly understood. A substantial portion of the MSC secretome is delivered via extracellular vesicles (EVs), membrane-bound particles that facilitate intercellular communication. EVs derived from MSCs of various origins exhibit therapeutic potential, and numerous studies are examining the miRNA and protein cargo contained within MSC-EVs. Despite these efforts, methodological differences across the literature and the inherent variability associated with MSC sources have limited data interpretation and identification of EV-factors which may be responsible for neuroprotection. In this study, we have reviewed proteomic, transcriptomic and lipidomic datasets from a selection of recent MSC-EV studies, to identify shared cargo components that may contribute to promoting cell repair and plasticity in brain, counteracting neurodegeneration.