Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Heyndrickxia coagulans Lilac-01 Modulate Immune Responses In Vitro and Ex Vivo

Background/Aim: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are intercellular mediators. In this study, we characterized EVs from Heyndrickxia coagulans lilac-01 (Lilac-01EVs) and determined their immunological effects on mouse macrophages and splenocytes. Materials and Methods: Lilac-01EVs were isolated from culture supernatants, and their size, zeta potential, protein, and RNA quality were measured. Their effects on RAW264.7 cell viability, cytokine gene expression, and splenocyte cytokine production were determined. Results: Lilac-01EVs (Z-average: 79.86±0.54 nm, negative zeta potential) met the standard for EV criteria. In RAW264.7 cells, they induced proliferation and upregulated immunostimulatory cytokine gene expression. In splenocytes, they induced Th1-related cytokine production. Conclusion: Lilac-01EVs stimulate innate immunity and promote Th1-type responses, which suggests their ability to influence the immune balance in cancer and type II allergic diseases.