Abstract
Extracellular vesicles are molecules secreted by cells, wrapped in
phospholipids and carrying some types of RNA, DNA and protein in their inner region.
Extracellular vesicles are classified as apoptotic bodies, microvesicles, and exosomes
based on their extent and formation process. Exosomes, which have the smallest
structure, have received more attention than other extracellular vesicles. Exosomes
contain different types of molecules in their structures. Cell membranes comprise a
lipid bilayer and contain different cargo molecules and different surface receptors,
depending on the cells of origin where biogenesis takes place. The biogenesis of
exosomes begins within the endosomal system. Then they mature and are released out
of the cell. The biogenesis of exosomes may be associated with the ESCRT complex
and may depend on many molecules other than the ESCRT complex. Exosomes
excreted by the origin cells are taken up by the target cells in different ways and show
their effects. The effects of exosomes on their target cells may vary according to the
cargo molecules they carry. They participate in cell-to-cell communication by sending
different signals to distant or nearby target cells. Exosomes have a variety of
pathological and physiological effects on disease and health. They have different
effects on many diseases, especially cancer. They play an active role in cancer
development, tumor microenvironment, angiogenesis, drug resistance and immune
system. There are many diseases that can be used as a biomarker due to increased
secretion from cells of origin in pathological conditions. In addition, exosomes can be
utilized as drug transportation systems due to their natural structure. In addition, they
are potential candidates as effective vaccines because of their effects on immune
system cells or the effects of exosomes secreted from immune system cells.