Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles. It is a term that was described more than 30 years ago as “small bubbles” between 40 and 100nm in diameter, which can be excreted by most cells.

They are not cells per se but they allow intracellular communication. They are mini spheres with a lipid membrane coated internally with proteins, complex RNA, and other substances, and act as a transport of genetic data and proteins to other cells in the body. Thus, they allow communication between cells, transport molecules that are vital controllers of intracellular data, and carry information from one place to another, with different purposes, teaching cells when and how to function and react.

As mentioned above, exosomes are not cells but have a crucial role in the communication and repair of cells in the body. Various studies have shown that communication between cells is very important for a healthy cellular soil.

Age, chronic diseases, some genetic pathologies, and environmental factors interfere with the communication of our stem cells with other cells and obstruct the healing process. Exosomes are key in this communication.

Exosomes are used in Regenerative Medicine. After several studies, the great functionality of exosomes in the revitalization of old cells has been discovered. By joining old cells from an older organism to young cells from a younger body, it can be seen that the exosomes present in young stem cells are responsible for revitalizing those old cells. It is, then, a healing strategy.

An example of an application would be in degenerative diseases, which constantly deteriorate cells and affect other organs. Stem cells are responsible for cell rejuvenation and external factors can hinder their activities, and they may not have the ability to give all the information to the cells. External exosomes can help stem cells, assisting in the healing processes.

During exosome therapy, the specialist in Regenerative Medicine injects exosomes to the patient, with external exosomes. In this way, the regenerative treatment will begin. The injection will improve communication between cells, in hundreds of growth factors and proteins, stimulating healing and reducing inflammation.

It is a procedure that is done on an outpatient basis, and hardly causes discomfort for the patient. Only a few patients experience a headache, mild fever, or nausea, but this is very rare.

In principle, no specific preparation is necessary before exosome therapy, but the specialist in Regenerative Medicine will recommend the patient if it is necessary to take any precautions, due to their particular situation.

Usually, patients return to normal activities immediately after exosome therapy. During the following days, the patient may notice some localized pain, slight redness in the area, or discomfort where the injection has been carried out, but it is something that will subside shortly.

• Avoid anti-inflammatory medication.
• Avoid very busy or stressful activities in the following 48 hours after the treatment.
• Do not start doing activities or cardiovascular exercise for 2 weeks.