What is it about?
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, are critical mediators of intercellular communication that influence numerous physiological and pathological processes, including aging. These vesicles carry bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which can modulate signaling pathways related to inflammation, senescence, immune response, and tissue regeneration. In aging, EVs have been implicated in both the propagation of cellular damage and the regulation of repair mechanisms. Age-related changes in EV content, secretion, and targeting may contribute to the decline in tissue homeostasis and the onset of age-associated diseases. This overview highlights the dualistic nature of EVs in aging, underscoring their potential as both biomarkers of biological age and targets for anti-aging interventions.
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Why is it important?
EVs reflect the physiological state of cells and may serve as non-invasive biomarkers of biological aging. Young or engineered EVs could be harnessed for anti-aging therapies and tissue regeneration. Offer valuable understanding of how intercellular communication contributes to aging and age-related diseases.
Perspectives
Extracellular vesicles represent a powerful but underexplored dimension of aging biology. On one hand, EVs from aged cells often carry pro-inflammatory factors, oxidative stress signals, and senescence-associated secretory phenotypes (SASP), thereby contributing to systemic aging and chronic inflammation. On the other hand, EVs derived from young or stem cells have shown rejuvenating effects by enhancing tissue repair, modulating immune function, and even restoring mitochondrial activity. The age-specific composition and function of EVs could thus serve as both diagnostic indicators and therapeutic agents in aging-related disorders. However, challenges remain in standardizing EV isolation methods and understanding their long-term effects. Future research focusing on EV manipulation and delivery systems may pave the way for innovative anti-aging therapies and regenerative medicine.
Dr.Ramakrishnan Veerabathiran
Chettinad Health City
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Aging: An Overview and Implications, January 2024, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/978-981-97-2494-9_15.
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