Ginkgolide B promotes stem cell homing and neuronal differentiation by Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in a Parkinson's disease cell model

Parkinson Stem cell therapy offers potential benefits for Parkinson ’s disease (PD) through neuronal repair and functional restoration of the brain; however, its effectiveness is hindered by limited cell survival, inadequate differentiation, and low homing of the transplanted cells. Ginkgolide B (GB), a bioactive compound found in Ginkgo biloba, has neuroprotective properties. This study examined the impact of GB on Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs) and their exosomes for potential use in PD therapy. GB enhanced WJMSC homing by upregulating CXCR4, CXCR7, and SDF-1 while reducing OCT4 and Nanog. GB also increased neural differentiation markers, including CD133, BDNF, and phospho-IGF1-R, accompanied by β-catenin nuclear translocation. Exosomes from GB-treated WJMSCs were larger and more effective in promoting neuronal differentiation, as demonstrated by increased BDNF levels and NeuN-positive cells. These results suggest that GB enhances WJMSC differentiation and exosome function, supporting its use as an adjunct in stem cell–based PD treatments.