Mikrovesikkelit

Mikrovesikkelit, also known as microvesicles, are small, membrane-enclosed particles that are naturally released from cells into the extracellular environment. They are typically ranging in size from 100 to 1000 nanometers in diameter and play important roles in intercellular communication. Microvesicles are formed by the outward budding and fission of the plasma membrane, a process that is often stimulated by cellular activation, stress, or apoptosis.

These vesicles carry a diverse cargo, including proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA, which reflect the cell of origin. This molecular content allows microvesicles to influence recipient cells by delivering functional biomolecules, thereby affecting processes such as immune responses, inflammation, tissue repair, and cancer progression.

Microvesicles are distinguished from other extracellular vesicles such as exosomes, which are smaller (30-150 nanometers) and originate from the endosomal system. Microvesicle formation involves the rearrangement of cytoskeletal elements and membrane lipids, often mediated by enzymes like scramblases and kinases.

Due to their ability to transfer complex cargo between cells, microvesicles are being extensively studied for potential applications in diagnostics and therapeutics. They can serve as disease biomarkers, offering non-invasive means for early detection of conditions such as cancer or cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, engineered microvesicles are explored as drug delivery vehicles, leveraging their natural biocompatibility and targeting capabilities.

Research continues into understanding the precise mechanisms of microvesicle biogenesis, cargo sorting, and functional roles in health and disease, highlighting their significance in cellular biology and medical science.