Work

Extracellular vesicle interplay in cardiovascular pathophysiology

Year: 2021

Type: review

Abstract: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized lipid bilayer-delimited particles released from cells that mediate intercellular communications and play a pivotal role in various physiological and pathological processes. Subtypes of EVs may include plasma membrane ectosomes or microvesicles and endosomal origin exosomes, although functional distinctions remain unclear. EVs carry cargo proteins, nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), lipids, and metabolites. By presenting or transferring this cargo to recipient cells, EVs can trigger cellular responses. We summarize contemporary understanding of EV biogenesis, composition, and function, with an emphasis on the role of EVs in the cardiovascular system. In addition, we outline the functional relevance of EVs in cardiovascular pathophysiology, further highlighting their potential for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Source: American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology

DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00925.2020

Authors: Sherin Saheera, Vivek P. Jani, Kenneth W. Witwer, Shelby Kutty

Institutions: University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Extracellular vesicles in disease

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Cancer Institute, Office of Strategic Coordination