Exosomes as Emerging Therapeutic Platforms in Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Exosomes (small extracellular vesicles, sEVs) are vital for intercellular communication in the central nervous system (CNS).
• These vesicles are implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of numerous neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• Exosomes transport diverse molecular cargo, influencing neuronal function and synaptic plasticity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of exosomes in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• To explore their contributions to disease pathogenesis.
• To discuss their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research on exosomes in CNS disorders.
• Analysis of exosome cargo (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids) and their impact on neuronal health.
• Examination of exosome presence in biofluids for biomarker potential.

Main Results:

• Exosomes can propagate neuroinflammation and synaptic dysfunction in disease states.
• They may mediate the spread of abnormal proteins and microRNAs, contributing to neurotoxicity.
• Exosomes are detectable in blood, CSF, and saliva, indicating biomarker utility.

Conclusions:

• Exosomes play significant roles in the pathogenesis of neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• Their presence in biofluids offers promise for novel diagnostic biomarkers.
• Exosome-based delivery systems present innovative therapeutic strategies.