MicroRNA-based engineering of mesenchymal stem cell extracellular vesicles for treatment of retinal ischemic disorders: Engineered extracellular vesiclesand retinal ischemia.

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging therapeutic tools. Hypoxic pre-conditioning (HPC) of MSCs altered the production of microRNAs (miRNAs) in EVs, and enhanced the cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties of their derivative EVs in retinal cells. EV miRNAs were identified as the primary contributors of these EV functions.

Uptake and Distribution of Administered Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Extracellular Vesicles in Retina.

Cell replacement therapy using mesenchymal (MSC) and other stem cells has been evaluated for diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. This approach has significant limitations, including few cells integrated, aberrant growth, and surgical complications. Mesenchymal Stem Cell Exosomes/Extracellular Vesicles (MSC EVs), which include exosomes and microvesicles, are an emerging alternative, promoting immunomodulation, repair, and regeneration by mediating MSC's paracrine effects.

Autophagy and post-ischemic conditioning in retinal ischemia.

Retinal ischemia is a major cause of vision loss and a common underlying mechanism associated with diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy and central retinal artery occlusion. We have previously demonstrated the robust neuroprotection in retina induced by post-conditioning (post-C), a brief period of ischemia, 24 h, following a prolonged and damaging initial ischemia. The mechanisms underlying post-C-mediated retinal protection are largely uncharacterized.

Time to sign: The relationship between health literacy and signature time.

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between amount of time taken to sign one's name and health literacy.

Methods: A prospective, one time assessment was conducted on a convenience sample of 98 patients recruited in an inner-city outpatient internal medicine clinic. The amount of time required to sign (i.