miR-21-loaded bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes inhibit pyroptosis by targeting MALT1 to repair chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency

Chemotherapy is essential for treating malignant tumors, but it can cause premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Recent studies suggest that exosomes enriched with miR-21 (miR-21-Exo) may help mitigate POI, though the underlying mechanisms remain largely unexplored. This research investigates how miR-21-Exo influences chemotherapy-induced POI using an experimental model where KGN cells are exposed to cisplatin. We assessed the impact of miR-21 on cellular activity and generated miR-21 overexpressing bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (miR-21-BMSC) via lentiviral modification. Isolated miR-21-Exo was analyzed for its effects on cellular function. Bioinformatics identified Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma Translocation Protein 1 (MALT1) as a target of miR-21. We confirmed that miR-21-Exo regulates MALT1 and the NF-κB signaling pathway to prevent cell pyroptosis. Further studies in a rat model demonstrated the therapeutic potential and safety of miR-21-Exo. Overall, our findings highlight a novel strategy for addressing chemotherapy-induced POI by modulating MALT1 and the NF-κB pathway, offering significant therapeutic implications.