Neural Stem Cell-derived EVs for Treating Neurological and Neurodegenerative Disorders

As we advance our understanding of the role of neural stem cells (NSCs) and the composition of extracellular vesicles (EVs) they release, we begin to unveil promising pathways to address the challenges posed by debilitating neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. Recent advancements employing NSC-EVs in animal models of disease are showing promise for neuroregeneration and neurorepair. These breakthroughs involve the modulation of neuroinflammation, alleviation of amyloid-beta and phosphorylated tau-related pathological changes, repair of the blood-brain barrier, and improvements in cognitive and mood function. As we further explore these developments, the potential for enhanced synaptic plasticity and improved patient outcomes is becoming increasingly viable. NSC-derived EVs are laden with a rich cargo of microRNAs, proteins, and lipids, capable of mediating powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, enhancing cognitive function, and providing neuroprotection. Moreover, the innovative engineering of NSC-EVs can significantly improve their therapeutic potential, positioning them as an ideal biologic for slowing down brain aging and combating a range of diseases, including the difficult-to-treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury. These disorders urgently call for groundbreaking therapeutic strategies, and harnessing NSC-derived EVs may pave the way for transformative interventions in the field of neurology.

We invite researchers to contribute to this special Collection by submitting original research articles. A few insightful review articles will also be considered.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

- Mechanisms of NSC-EVs-mediated neuroregeneration and neurorepair

- The role of microRNA and protein cargo of NSC-EVs in neuroprotection

- Strategies for BBB penetration of intravenously administered NSC-EVs

- Targeting of NSC-EVs into specific cell types in the brain

- Mechanisms of antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects of NSC-EVs in the brain

- Modulation of synaptic plasticity by NSC-EVs

- Insights from studies of NSC-EVs in animal models of brain aging, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, and multiple sclerosis

- Pathway for clinical applications of NSC-EVs in neurological and neurodegenerative disorders

- Production of clinical-grade NSC-EVs

- Innovations in cell-free therapeutic approaches

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email [email protected] or the Editor-in-Chief.