Multiplex analysis of cancer cells treated with induced mesenchymal stem cell membrane vesicles

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-derived vesicles released by cells into the extracellular space, playing a crucial role in intercellular communication and regulating a range of biological processes. These vesicles are found in tumor tissue, where they serve as mediators in signal transduction between tumor cells and the cells of the microenvironment. Similar to their parent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), extracellular vesicles demonstrate contradictory effects on tumor development. Studies have shown that MSC-derived EVs promote tumor growth; however, some research has also demonstrated their inhibitory role. AIM: The aim is to assess the effect of mesenchymal stem cell-derived membrane vesicles on the molecular composition of cancer cells. METHODS: Induced membrane vesicles were obtained from mesenchymal stem cells through treatment with cytochalasin B. Mesenchymal stem cells were initially sourced from adipose tissue. To simulate intercellular communication between tumor cells and MSCs, induced membrane vesicles were applied at varying protein concentrations to recipient cells (SH-SY5Y, PC3, MCF7). The bicinchoninic acid method was used to measure the total protein concentration isolated from human cells/induced membrane vesicles. Subsequently, the molecular composition of the recipient cells after the application of induced membrane vesicles was analyzed using multiplex assays. RESULTS: We determined that after the application of MSC-derived membrane vesicles to cancer cells, significant alterations occur in the expression of numerous biologically active molecules, including cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors. Specifically, increased concentrations of growth factor FGF-2, cytokines G-CSF, Fractalkine, IL-12p40, IL-9, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and chemokines IP-10, MCP-1, among others, were observed. The analysis also revealed that most of these molecules are associated with cell proliferation, migration, and immune response. CONCLUSION: Mesenchymal stem cell-derived membrane vesicles are capable of altering the molecular profile of cancer cells, increasing the concentration of molecules linked to cell survival and migration.