Objective To summarize the research progress of intervertebral disc endogenous stem cells for intervertebral disc regeneration and deduce the therapeutic potential of endogenous repair for intervertebral disc degeneration. Methods The original articles about intervertebral disc endogenous stem cells for intervertebral disc regeneration were extensively reviewed; the reparative potential in vivo and the extraction and identification in vitro of intervertebral disc endogenous stem cells were analyzed; the prospect of endogenous stem cells for intervertebral disc regeneration was predicted. Results Stem cell niche present in the intervertebral discs, from which stem cells migrate to injured tissues and contribute to tissues regeneration under certain specific microenvironment. Moreover, the migration of stem cells is regulated by chemokines system. Tissue specific progenitor cells have been identified and successfully extracted and isolated. The findings provide the basis for biological therapy of intervertebral disc endogenous stem cells. Conclusion Intervertebral disc endogenous stem cells play a crucial role in intervertebral disc regeneration. Therapeutic strategy of intervertebral disc endogenous stem cells is proven to be a promising biological approach for intervertebral disc regeneration.
Objective To review the recent advances in the application of exosome-hydrogel system for wound healing. Methods A wide range of recent domestic and international studies were reviewed to systematically outline the roles and mechanisms of exosomes, hydrogels, and their composite system in promoting wound repair. Results Wound healing is a complex and finely regulated process. Traditional therapies lack targeted regulation of key mechanisms such as inflammation control, angiogenesis, collagen remodeling, and re-epithelialization. The exosome-hydrogel system enhances wound repair through targeted modulation of these mechanisms and provides effective protection against bacterial infection, hypoxia, excessive oxidative stress, and hyperglycemic microenvironments. Conclusion The exosome-hydrogel system represents an emerging approach for chronic wound repair and skin regeneration, potentially overcoming the inherent limitations of traditional therapies. Nevertheless, the lack of standardized preparation methods and dosing protocols calls for further optimization.