Salivary Exosome Biomarkers for Predicting Delayed Wound Healing after Oral Surgery

Abstract

Delayed wound healing following oral surgical procedures remains a significant clinical challenge, often
resulting in prolonged recovery, increased risk of infection, and compromised treatment outcomes.
Early identification of patients at risk requires reliable, minimally invasive biomarkers capable of reflecting
biological changes within the healing environment. Salivary exosomes, nanosized extracellular
vesicles containing proteins, lipids, messenger RNA, and microRNA, have emerged as promising
diagnostic tools due to their stability, accessibility, and ability to mediate intercellular communication.
These vesicles provide valuable molecular information related to inflammation, immune regulation, angiogenesis,
extracellular matrix remodeling, and tissue regeneration. Alterations in exosomal cargo may
serve as predictive indicators of impaired healing responses after oral surgical interventions, including
tooth extraction, implant placement, and periodontal procedures. Advances in molecular profiling technologies
have enabled the identification of potential exosome-derived signatures associated with wound
repair dynamics. The integration of salivary exosome analysis with digital diagnostics and predictive
modeling may facilitate personalized postoperative care and early intervention strategies. Despite current
limitations related to standardization, validation, and clinical implementation, salivary exosome
biomarkers represent a promising approach for improving the prediction and management of delayed
oral wound healing.