Work

Quantum dot-engineered extracellular vesicles derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth stem cells for the dynamic monitoring and synergistic therapy of ischemic stroke

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Ischemic stroke, marked by oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the long-term injury process after reperfusion, remains a leading global cause of disability and mortality, urging the need for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Extracellular vesicles derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth stem cells (SHED-EVs) have been suggested to be competent therapeutic agents in neurological diseases, with the capability as biological carriers. This study aims to develop engineered SHED-EVs for integrated diagnostic imaging and therapeutic intervention in ischemic stroke. Engineered SHED-EVs were constructed by loading fluorescent quantum dots and single-atom catalysts into native SHED-EVs. These EVs were nasally administered to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mouse model to assess their biodistribution, blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, neuroprotective efficacy, functional recovery outcomes, and biocompatibility. Live imaging demonstrated preferential accumulation of engineered SHED-EVs at ischemic injury sites, correlating with dynamic BBB remodeling. Treatment significantly improved neurological function and reduced infarct volume in stroke models. Mechanistically, the engineered SHED-EVs effectively scavenged excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibited mRNA expression of proinflammation factors in oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-treated brain microvessel endothelial cells (BMECs), which is critical for the restoration of BBB integrity and attenuation of neuroinflammation. We developed the engineered SHED-EVs with dual diagnostic-therapeutic functionality, which offers a promising approach for addressing post-reperfusion pathologies in ischemic stroke, including oxidative damage and neuroinflammation. The integration of tracking capability with therapeutic efficacy represents a significant advancement over current monomodal interventions. This study introduces a personalized theragnostic approach that combines SHED-EVs with real-time imaging to enhance treatment precision and monitoring in ischemic stroke. Clinically, it holds promise for improving patient outcomes by enabling early intervention, dynamic therapy adjustment, and reduced secondary injury. • Integrated SHED-EV-based diagnosis and therapy developed for ischemic stroke. • Engineered SHED-EVs preserve blood–brain barrier integrity through ROS scavenging. • Engineered SHED-EVs enable dynamic monitoring of the neurovascular barrier.

Source: Translational dental research.

DOI: 10.1016/j.tdr.2025.100048