Exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells attenuate brain–lung complications in type 2 diabetic rats via suppression of mTOR/GSK3β and TRPM2/NLRP3 pathways

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is associated with neurochemical and lung imbalances. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of exosome (Exo) treatment in ameliorating systemic complications in a rat model of type 2 diabetes. Eighteen male rats were divided into three groups: Control, Diabetic, and Diabetic + Exosome-treated. After the intervention period, serum, brain, and lung tissues were analysed. In serum, diabetes induced hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia, all of which were significantly improved by Exo (p < 0.001). Diabetic rats exhibited significant elevations in brain malondialdehyde, mTOR, and GSK3β, along with reduced glutathione, serotonin, and dopamine (all p < 0.001 vs. Control). Exo treatment reversed these changes (p < 0.001 vs. Diabetic). In lung tissue, diabetes increased MDA, TRPM2, and NLRP3 while suppressed superoxide dismutase; Exo treatment ameliorated these issues (p < 0.001). Exosomes exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in type 2 diabetic rats in the brain and lungs.