Tonsil mesenchymal stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles prevent submandibular gland dysfunction in...

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Stem Cell Therapy
• Oral Health

Background:

• Menopause-induced dry mouth significantly impacts elderly quality of life.
• Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles show promise in regenerative medicine.
• Ovariectomy in rats models post-menopausal salivary gland dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the therapeutic potential of tonsil mesenchymal stem cells (T-MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs).
• Evaluate the effect of T-MSC-derived EVs on salivary gland dysfunction following ovariectomy (OVX).

Main Methods:

• Rats were divided into sham-operated (SHAM), OVX, and OVX+EV groups.
• T-MSC-derived EVs were administered to the OVX+EV group.
• Salivary gland function, inflammation, and fibrosis markers were assessed 6 weeks post-surgery.

Main Results:

• OVX rats showed decreased estradiol levels, increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), and elevated collagen I and TGFβI.
• T-MSC-derived EVs reduced inflammation and fibrosis markers in OVX+EV rats.
• EV treatment improved downregulated expressions of AQP5 and α-amylase, indicating restored submandibular gland function.

Conclusions:

• Tonsil mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles effectively prevent and treat submandibular gland dysfunction post-ovariectomy.
• EVs mitigate menopause-related dry mouth by reducing inflammation and fibrosis.
• This study highlights the therapeutic value of T-MSC-derived EVs in salivary gland regeneration.