Work

Therapeutic Potentials of Extracellular Vesicles for the Treatment of Diabetes and Diabetic Complications

Year: 2020

Type: review

Abstract: Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, are nano-to-micrometer vesicles released from nearly all cellular types. EVs comprise a mixture of bioactive molecules (e.g., mRNAs, miRNAs, lipids, and proteins) that can be transported to the targeted cells/tissues via the blood or lymph circulation. Recently, EVs have received increased attention, owing to their emerging roles in cell-to-cell communication, or as biomarkers with the therapeutic potential to replace cell-based therapy. Diabetes comprises a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia that cause the development of life-threatening complications. The impacts of conventional clinical treatment are generally limited and are followed by many side effects, including hypoglycemia, obesity, and damage to the liver and kidney. Recently, several studies have shown that EVs released by stem cells and immune cells can regulate gene expression in the recipient cells, thus providing a strategy to treat diabetes and its complications. In this review, we summarize the results from currently available studies, demonstrating the therapeutic potentials of EVs in diabetes and diabetic complications. Additionally, we highlight recommendations for future research.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145163

Authors: Wei Hu, Xiang Song, Haibo Yu, Jingyu Sun, Yong Zhao

Institutions: Stevens Institute of Technology, Hackensack Meridian Health

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: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,112