‌Dual-target hUCMSCs/EVs therapy for autism spectrum disorder: remodeling gut microbiota and modulating neuroimmune crosstalk in a valproic acid-induced C57BL/6 mice model.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and repetitive behaviors. Accumulating evidence implicates neuroimmune dysregulation and gut microbiota dysbiosis in its pathogenesis, yet effective therapies targeting these mechanisms are lacking. This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) and their extracellular vesicles (EVs), both alone and in combination, in a valproic acid (VPA)-induced ASD mouse model.

Methods

VPA-exposed C57BL/6 mice were randomized into five groups: control, VPA, hUCMSCs alone, EVs alone, and hUCMSCs + EVs combination. Behavioral tests, biochemical analyses, 16 S rRNA sequencing, immunofluoresce

SUBMITTER: Wu C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12817768 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature