Exosomes in Central Nervous System Diseases: A Comprehensive Review of Emerging Research and Clinical Frontiers

Exosomes, nano-sized lipid bilayer vesicles, have garnered significant attention as mediators of cell communication, particularly within the central nervous system (CNS). Their unique properties, including high stability, low immunogenicity, and the ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB), position them as promising tools for understanding and addressing CNS diseases. This comprehensive review delves into the biogenesis, properties, composition, functions, and isolation of exosomes, with a particular focus on their roles in cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and CNS tumors. Exosomes are involved in key pathophysiological processes in the CNS, including angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, and cellular microenvironment modification. They demonstrate promise in mitigating ischemic injury, regulating inflammatory responses, and providing neuroprotection across various CNS conditions. Furthermore, exosomes carry distinct biomolecules, offering a novel method for the early diagnosis and monitoring of CNS diseases. Despite their potential, challenges such as complex extraction processes, the heterogeneity of exosomal contents, and targeted delivery limitations hinder their clinical application. Nevertheless, exosomes hold significant promise for advancing our understanding of CNS diseases and developing novel therapeutic strategies. This manuscript significantly contributes to the field by highlighting exosomes' potential in advancing our understanding of CNS diseases, underscoring their unique value in developing novel therapeutic strategies and mediating cellular communication.