Effects of Exosomes Derived from Hydatid Cyst Stem Cells on Human Hepatocytes

Hydatid cyst disease is a zoonotic infection that predominantly affects the liver and can lead to severe hepatic complications. Exosomes are important mediators of intercellular signaling and are capable of transferring bioactive molecules to target cells. This study aimed to investigate the biological effects of exosomes derived from hydatid cyst stem cells on human hepatocytes to better understand parasite-associated hepatic alterations.

In this in vitro experimental study, stem cells were isolated from the germinal layer of hydatid cysts and cultured. Cell identity was confirmed by flow cytometry. Exosomes were isolated using sequential filtration and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS). Human hepatocytes were divided into control and exosome-treated groups. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. Gene expression levels of apoptosis-related markers (Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, and Caspase-7) were determined by qPCR, and protein levels were quantified using ELISA.

Exosomes derived from hydatid cyst stem cells significantly reduced the viability of human hepatocytes (P < 0.0001). Moreover, exosome exposure was associated with increased expression and protein levels of pro-apoptotic markers, including Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-7, along with decreased expression of the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2.

Hydatid cyst stem cell-derived exosomes promote apoptotic changes in human hepatocytes in vitro. These findings provide preliminary evidence suggesting a potential role for parasite-derived extracellular vesicles in hepatic cellular alterations observed during hydatid disease.