Editorial Commentary: Rotator Cuff Repairs Augmented With Exosomes in a Rabbit Model Are Stronger and Histologically Superior to Repairs Performed in Isolation.

Abstract

Ongoing research should focus on improving the healing of rotator cuff repairs (RCRs) at the tendon-to-bone interface. "Cells, scaffolds, and signals" is useful in categorizing orthobiologic-related approaches to augmenting RCR. Cell-based therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow aspirate concentrate, exert positive effects through the production of signaling molecules that modulate the inflammatory process, promote angiogenesis, and facilitate new tendon tissue growth. "Scaffolds" refer to structural and nonstructural augments that may facilitate the concentration of biologically active constituents at the healing site and provide time-zero tissue strength of repaired tissues. Owing to challenges associated with the use of cell-based products, isolation and targeted delivery of the signaling molecules represent a promising avenue for optimizing tendon repair healing. "Exosomes" are small extracellular vesicles (30-150 nm) secreted by cells that serve as natural carriers of bioactive molecules. The role of exosomes in influencing intercellular communication-modulating inflammation, promoting angiogenesis, and regulating extracellular matrix remodeling-makes them uniquely suited for tissue repair applications and a natural target for RCR-related basic science research. The use of exosomes represents a promising adjunct that appears to improve the biomechanical and histologic properties of RCRs. Rotator cuff repairs augmented with exosomes in a rabbit model may be stronger and histologically superior to repairs performed in isolation.