Exosome RNA Exosome RNA Research & Industry News
Natural killer (NK) cells are powerful components of the immune system that help fight infections and inflammation. Recently, scientists have turned their attention to tiny particles released by these cells, known as extracellular vesicles (EVs), which carry many of the same beneficial molecules and can help reduce inflammation. However, delivering these EVs typically requires intravenous (IV) injections and ultra-cold storage at -80°C, both of which make them hard to use in everyday medicine.
A team of researchers from the University of Southern California explored an innovative solution: using dissolvable microneedles (MNs) made from hyaluronic acid and trehalose to deliver NK cell-derived EVs. These microneedles are small enough to be painless and noninvasive, and they allow EVs to be stored at room temperature for extended periods.
The research team tested the microneedles’ ability to release EVs, penetrate skin, and remain stable over time. Even after six months of room-temperature storage, the EVs remained effective, reducing inflammation markers like IL-6 by about 70% in lab-grown human skin cells. In a model of chronic inflammation similar to psoriasis, the microneedle treatment also decreased the levels of IL-6, TNFα, and psoriasis-related markers by approximately 40%.
This new approach could make it easier to use EV-based therapies regularly without the need for cold storage or hospital visits for IV infusions. It opens the door for more accessible and long-lasting treatments for inflammatory diseases, including skin conditions like psoriasis.
