Protective effect of Hypoxia Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Exosomes on NF-kB (P65) expression and catalase activity in UV-B induced skin aging

Exposure to ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation can elevate free radical levels due to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant enzyme activity, particularly catalase. Elevated free radicals induce oxidative stress, initiating an inflammatory response via the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB) pathway and subsequently triggering the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. Recent studies suggest that exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (E-MSCs) contain bioactive molecules with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Administration of E-MSCs has been reported to suppress pro-inflammatory mediator release, demonstrating potential as a therapeutic agent for photoaging skin. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of subcutaneous E-MSC (E-MSC) injections on NF-kB (P65) expression and catalase enzyme levels in the skin of male Wistar rats subjected to premature aging induced by UV-B exposure. An in vivo experiment employing a randomized post-test-only control group design was utilized, involving five treatment groups. Data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal-Walls test for NF-kB expression and One-Way ANOVA for catalase enzyme levels. Results indicated significant differences among groups in NF-kB (P65) expression (p=0.005) and catalase enzyme activity (p=0.001). Specifically, subcutaneous administration of EH-MSC at doses of 200 µL and 300 µL significantly reduced NF-kB (P65) expression and enhanced catalase enzyme activity, suggesting a protective role against UV-B-induced skin aging in Wistar rats.