2016-01-01
In this review, we discuss the functions of exosomes from different types of stem cells and emphasize the therapeutic potentials of exosomes
In summary, exosomes can be released by various kinds of stem cells and are able to modify the function of the receptor cells and tissues. Compared with stem cells, which may cause abnormal differentiation and tumor formation, the exosomes mediated therapy harbors a more promising future. Some diseases including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are currently incurable, but MVs especially the exosomes have shown therapeutic potentials . However, there are still challenges to overcome in studies of exosomes. The most common method in isolation of exosomes is still ultracentrifugation which is time-consuming and requires a large amount of cells and biological fluid. Although commercial exosome extraction reagents are now available and yield high numbers of exosomes, the products still need purification as they contain non-EV contaminants such as lipoproteins. There are other open areas such as the process where the exosomes choose respective cargo to transport, the way the cells take up the exosomes, and how many types of exosomes warrant further investigations. When referring to the exosomes released by the stem cells, the definite mechanisms of the action and specific therapeutic potential of each subtype still need further efforts