biopartícules

Biopartículas are microscopic entities originating from biological sources. They encompass a wide range of structures, including viruses, viroids, prions, and exosomes. While some biopartículas, like viruses, are known for their pathogenic roles, others, such as exosomes, are increasingly recognized for their functions in intercellular communication and their potential in therapeutic applications.

Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they require a host cell to replicate. They consist of genetic material, either DNA or RNA, enclosed in a protein coat called a capsid. Some viruses also have an outer lipid envelope derived from the host cell membrane. Viroids are even simpler, consisting solely of a short, circular strand of RNA without any protein coat. Prions are infectious proteins that can cause neurodegenerative diseases by inducing misfolding in normal proteins. Exosomes, on the other hand, are small vesicles released by cells that carry various biomolecules like proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. They play crucial roles in transporting signals between cells, influencing physiological processes, and are being explored for drug delivery and disease diagnostics. Understanding the diverse nature and functions of biopartículas is vital in fields ranging from medicine and immunology to biotechnology and environmental science.