Hair follicle stem cell-derived secretome protects astrocytes in an <i>in vitro</i> ischemia/reperfusion model

Ischemic stroke causes significant neuronal and glial cell damage. Recent studies suggest that stem cell-derived secretomes may offer therapeutic benefits for neural injuries. This study evaluates the protective effects of hair follicle stem cell (HFSC)-derived secretome on astrocytes subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), an <i>in vitro</i> model of ischemic stroke. In this regard, the primary astrocyte cultures were exposed to OGD conditions for 24 hours, followed by treatment with HFSC-derived secretome for 48 hours to create an environment rich in paracrine factors. The neuroprotective effect of HFSC-derived secretome on injured astrocytes was assessed using MTT assay, apoptosis flow cytometry, and qRT-PCR. The HFSC secretome mitigated cell death and apoptosis in OGD-induced astrocytes. Additionally, the secretome reduced the mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines <i>IL-6</i>, <i>IL-1β</i>, and <i>TNF-α</i> compared to the injured cells. Furthermore, it upregulated the mRNA levels of neurotrophic factors <i>BDNF</i>, and <i>VEGF</i> after OGD in astrocytes. These findings suggest that the reparative effects of the secretome are associated with astrocyte neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-apoptotic effects. The neuroprotective effect of HFSC secretome may be associated with the upregulation of neurotrophic and angiogenic factors. Restored astrocytes create a conducive environment for repair, thereby expediting the recovery of impaired brain function. This study provides preclinical evidence supporting the potential of HFSC secretome in stroke therapy to improve treatment outcomes of patients who suffered from ischemic stroke.