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Metabolic and Signaling Functions of Cancer Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles.
P Fonseca1, I Vardaki1, A Occhionero1
1Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology
|August 31, 2016
Summary
Extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes, are key in cell communication and cancer progression. These vesicles influence tumor growth, immune response, and therapy resistance, with a growing role in cancer cell metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Cancer Research
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate intercellular communication.
- Exosomes, a type of EV, are endosome-derived and play roles in cancer progression.
- Cancer cell metabolism influences EV secretion and content.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of metabolism in exosome secretion, uptake, and biological effects.
- To highlight the metabolic activity of exosomes.
- To discuss the impact of exosomes on recipient cell metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on extracellular vesicles and cancer metabolism.
- Analysis of exosome biogenesis, content, and function.
- Examination of the metabolic pathways involving exosomes.
Main Results:
- Exosomes are implicated in tumor growth, immune modulation, and therapy resistance.
- Exosomes possess intrinsic metabolic activity, including ATP synthesis.
- Exosomes carry metabolic enzymes and metabolites, influencing recipient cell metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Metabolism is integral to exosome function in cancer.
- Exosomes actively participate in and alter cellular metabolic states.
- Understanding exosome metabolism is crucial for cancer research and therapy.
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