06/04/2023
What is Exosomes
Exosomes are tiny vesicles that are released by cells and play a role in cell-to-cell communication. They are made up of a lipid bilayer membrane and contain various types of molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, including microRNAs.
Exosomes are formed by the inward budding of the endosomal membrane, which then fuses with the plasma membrane and releases the exosome into the extracellular space. Once released, exosomes can interact with neighboring cells and transfer their contents, including RNA, proteins, and lipids, to those cells. This transfer of information can play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication and can help regulate various biological processes, such as immune responses, tissue repair, and the progression of diseases like cancer.
Exosomes are being studied for their potential use as a therapeutic tool in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. They may also be used as a biomarker for the diagnosis of diseases and for monitoring treatment response.