Exosome/Extracellular Vesicles-Based Therapeutics in Alzheimer’s Disease: Neuroprotective Roles and Future Perspectives


Ebadpour N., Abavisani M., KARAV S., Kesharwani P., Sahebkar A.

Journal of Molecular Neuroscience, vol.75, no.4, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 75 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s12031-025-02432-6
  • Journal Name: Journal of Molecular Neuroscience
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Aquatic Science & Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, Chemical Abstracts Core, MEDLINE, Veterinary Science Database
  • Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, Amyloid-beta clearance, Exosomes, Neuroinflammation, Neuron-derived exosomes (NDEs), Stem cell-derived exosomes
  • Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, is marked by memory loss, cognitive decline, and characteristic pathological features including β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques, tau tangles, and neuroinflammation. Despite extensive research, effective therapies remain elusive. Exosome/EVs-based therapeutics have emerged as a promising avenue for AD treatment. Neuron-derived exosomes/extracellular vesicles (EVs) (NDEs) and stem cell-derived exosomes/EVs exhibit neuroprotective effects by promoting Aβ degradation, modulating tau pathology, and reducing inflammation. Notably, NDEs carry insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) and cellular prion proteins (PrPC), aiding Aβ clearance. However, exosomes also present challenges, such as the potential propagation of pathogenic tau and complement-mediated neurotoxicity. Neural and mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes further demonstrate therapeutic efficacy by altering amyloid precursor protein processing and activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling to reduce AD pathology. Despite these advancements, clinical translation requires a deeper understanding of exosome/EVs biology, improved isolation techniques, and personalized strategies. Continued research may establish exosomes as a transformative approach in AD therapy.