Exosome-loaded alginate hydrogels as modulators of B16-F10 melanoma cell migration

Exosomes have gained attention as promising therapeutic agents in cancer treatment due to their ability to influence target cell phenotypes and modulate immune responses. Their role in tumor biology, however, is influenced by several factors, including the source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), culture conditions, and the tumor microenvironment. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of exosomes derived from bone marrow MSCs of Sprague-Dawley rats, incorporated into alginate hydrogels (AH), on the migration and viability of murine melanoma (B16-F10) cells. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the hydrogels preserved their structural integrity after exosome incorporation. Both AH and exosome-loaded AH (AHE) exhibited no cytotoxic effects, as the viability and colony-forming capacity of B16-F10 cells remained comparable to untreated controls. Notably, AHE significantly suppressed tumor cell migration, a critical step in cancer metastasis, whereas AH alone had no effect. These findings indicate that exosomes retained their functionality within the hydrogel matrix, effectively modulating cell migration. This study underscores the therapeutic potential of exosome-loaded hydrogels in regulating cancer cell behavior. Nonetheless, further research is needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved and optimize the clinical application of exosome-integrated hydrogels.