eksosomi

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles, typically ranging from 30 to 150 nanometers in diameter. They are released by most cells in the body, including those involved in the immune system, nervous system, and cancer cells. Exosomes are formed within cells in multivesicular bodies (MVBs) and are released into the extracellular environment when MVBs fuse with the plasma membrane. They are enclosed by a lipid bilayer and contain a cargo of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, such as messenger RNA (mRNA) and microRNA (miRNA).

The primary function of exosomes is intercellular communication. They can transfer their molecular contents to recipient cells, thereby influencing the function and behavior of those cells. This transfer can occur through various mechanisms, including direct fusion of the exosome membrane with the recipient cell membrane, endocytosis of the exosome by the recipient cell, or ligand-receptor interactions. The specific cargo of an exosome can vary depending on the cell type from which it originated and its physiological or pathological state.

Due to their role in intercellular communication, exosomes are implicated in a wide range of biological processes, including immune response, tissue repair, and the development and progression of diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Their ability to carry specific molecular signals has also led to significant interest in their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic delivery vehicles. Research into exosomes is an active and evolving field, with ongoing investigations into their precise mechanisms of action and their multifaceted roles in health and disease.