Astragalus and human mesenchymal stem cells promote wound healing by mediating immunomodulatory effects through paracrine signaling.

Skin regeneration from an injury without a scar is still a challenge. A murine model of a skin wound was treated with a combination of extract of astragalus and exosomes of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). CD11b+ and CD45 macrophages were detected and levels of cytokines were tested. The expression of growth factors VEGF, FGF2 and EGF was elevated after treatment administered to MSCs. The administration of ethanolic extract of astragalus decreased the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 and simultaneously increased the levels of IL-10. The combination sped up the process of wound healing. A sustained-release gel with both ingredients was developed to enhance restoration from granulation. : The extract of astragalus promotes the efficacy of MSC-derived exosomes in skin repair.