Huazhong University Team's Peptide Hydrogel With Stem Cell Exosomes Regrew Cartilage-Like Tissue in Rat Joint Defects by Week 8
The Exos@TRM gel builds on the self-assembling RADA16 peptide, adds a TGF-β1-binding peptide and a stem cell-recruiting motif, and releases bone marrow stem cell exosomes for about a week. In rats with surgically made cartilage-and-bone defects, it cut inflammatory M1 macrophages, drew in the animals' own TGF-β1 and stem cells, and formed tissue resembling natural cartilage. The authors note the acute surgical model does not mirror chronic human cartilage wear.