Schwann cell-derived exosomes accelerate periodontal bone regeneration with osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and neurogenesis

Abstract

Severe periodontitis frequently leads to irreversible degradation of alveolar bone. Periodontal regeneration techniques hold immense potential in reconstructing alveolar bone post periodontal diseases. Schwann cells (SCs) play a critical role in supporting, maintaining, and regenerating periodontal tissues, with SC-derived exosomes (SC-EXO) exhibiting cell homing and tissue repair capabilities. Nevertheless, the specific role of SC-EXO in periodontal bone regeneration remains unknown. To address the issue, we treated human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) with SC-EXO and observed a notable increase in cell proliferation, osteogenic and neurogenic differentiation. Moreover, SC-EXO stimulated the expression of angiogenic factors in vascular endothelial cells. In a rat model of periodontal bone defect, SC-EXO facilitated the recruitment of endogenous cells, regulated neural and vascular neogenesis, and accelerated periodontal bone regeneration. This study successfully developed a potential SC-EXO, which effectively promotes periodontal bone regeneration by regulating bone healing microenvironment, potentially offering a valuable strategy for periodontal tissue engineering.