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From trash to treasure: The untapped potential of endothelial microparticles in neurovascular diseases
J Winny Yun1, Adam Xiao1, Ikuo Tsunoda2
1Departments of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, United States.
Abstract:
Discovered in 1947, microparticles (MP) represent a group of sub-micron cell-derived particles isolated by high speed centrifugation. Once regarded as cellular 'trash', in the past decade MP have gained tremendous attention in both basic sciences and medical research both as biomarkers and mediators of infection, injury and response to therapy. Because MP bear cell surface markers derived from parent cells, accumulate in extracellular fluids (plasma, serum, milk, urine, cerebrospinal fluid) MP based tests are being developed commercially as important components in 'liquid biopsy' approaches, providing valuable readouts in cardiovascular disease and cancer, as well as stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Multiple Sclerosis. Importantly, MP have been reported as mobile transport vectors in the intercellular transfer of mRNAs, microRNAs, lipids and proteins. Here we discuss MP structure, properties and functions with particular relevance to neurological and neurovascular diseases.
Insights
Microparticles (MPs), once dismissed as cellular debris, are now recognized as vital biomarkers and mediators in disease. These cell-derived vesicles are crucial for intercellular communication and are key components of liquid biopsies for neurological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical research
- Cell biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Microparticles (MPs) are sub-micron cell-derived vesicles discovered in 1947.
- Initially considered cellular 'trash,' MPs have gained significant attention in recent years.
- MPs are increasingly recognized for their roles as biomarkers and mediators in various diseases.
Approach:
- Discusses the structure, properties, and functions of MPs.
- Highlights the relevance of MPs in neurological and neurovascular diseases.
- Explores the role of MPs in intercellular transfer of biomolecules like mRNA and microRNA.
Key Points:
- MPs carry surface markers from their parent cells and accumulate in extracellular fluids.
- MP-based tests are integral to 'liquid biopsy' approaches for cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke, Alzheimer's, and Multiple Sclerosis.
- MPs function as mobile vectors for intercellular transfer of mRNAs, microRNAs, lipids, and proteins.
Conclusions:
- MPs are significant in understanding disease mechanisms and developing diagnostic tools.
- Their role in intercellular communication and as biomarkers is critical for neurological and neurovascular disease research.
- The study emphasizes the evolving understanding and application of MPs in medical research.
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