Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Inhibit the Proliferation and Invasion of Uterine Fibroblast Cells

Objective: To investigate the effects of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSC) on the proliferation and invasion capacities of uterine fibroblast cells. Methods: Exosomes were isolated from the hUC-MSC culture medium via ultracentrifugation. The morphology, particle size, and surface markers of the hUC-MSC-derived exosomes (hUC-MSC-exo) were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and Western blotting. The impact of the exosomes on uterine fibroblast proliferation and invasion was assessed using the CCK-8 proliferation assay and Transwell invasion assays. Results: The exosomes exhibited a typical bilayer membrane structure with a diameter of 100–150 nm, and their average particle size was approximately 130 nm. The zeta potential was around -33 mV. Specific exosome markers, including CD9, TSG101, and CD63, were prominently expressed. Functionally, hUC-MSC-exo significantly inhibited the proliferation and invasion of uterine fibroblast cells. Conclusion: This study reveals the inhibitory effects of hUC-MSC-derived exosomes on uterine fibroblast proliferation and invasion, highlighting their potential therapeutic value. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying uterine scarring and suggest novel approaches for pharmacological treatment.