ECV full-summarised Flashcards
(28 cards)
What are exosomes?
A subtype of extracellular vesicles (EVs) formed through the endosomal pathway, typically ranging from 30–150 nm in diameter.
How do exosomes originate?
From the inward budding of early endosomes, which mature into multivesicular bodies (MVBs).
What happens to multivesicular bodies (MVBs)?
MVBs either fuse with the plasma membrane to release exosomes or are sent to lysosomes for degradation.
What is the role of cholesterol in the fate of MVBs?
Cholesterol-rich MVBs are more likely to be secreted, while those lacking cholesterol are degraded.
What is one advantage of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cell communication?
Efficient intercellular signaling, acting as natural carriers of signals (proteins, RNA, lipids) between cells.
Why are EVs considered biocompatible?
They are naturally derived from cells, making them less likely to provoke immune responses compared to synthetic systems.
What property of EVs enhances their potential for long-term storage?
High stability in biological circulation and endurance to environmental conditions such as lyophilization.
How can EVs be engineered for specific targeting?
They can be modified to precisely target certain cells or tissues, minimizing off-target effects.
What significant biological barrier can EVs cross?
The blood-brain barrier.
What is a key factor in the potential of EVs for tumor therapy?
Their small size enables them to pass through the fenestrations of blood vessels in tumors.
What is a limitation of exosome isolation?
No optimized method exists to harvest large amounts of exosomes for clinical applications.
What standard method is used for isolating exosomes?
Ultracentrifugation.
What are some issues with conventional 2D cell culture techniques?
Labor-intensive and produce low yields.
What complicates dosage standardization of exosomes?
Exosome heterogeneity across different progenitor cells and animal models.
What safety concerns exist with exosome therapies?
The FDA has not approved exosome therapies due to heterogeneity in cell sources and isolation methods.
What is one method of enhancing EV secretion via physical stimulation?
Shear stress.
What is a type of chemical stimulation that influences exosome secretion?
Adipokines.
How can genetic manipulation affect exosome production?
It can enhance or modify the production of exosomes for research or therapeutic purposes.
What are some physiological modifications that can increase EV secretion?
Hypoxic conditioning, thermal and oxidative stress.
What is the benefit of using 3D culture methods for EV production?
Enhances extracellular vesicle production by enabling large-scale cell expansion.
What is the mechanism of action of exosomes in hair loss treatment?
Exosomes carry Wnt proteins that activate β-catenin, stimulating hair growth.
What are the four key factors driving aging?
- Genetic Predisposition
- Accumulation of Cellular Damage
- Telomere Attrition
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction
What is one way exosomes reduce oxidative stress?
Deliver antioxidant enzymes like Catalase (CAT) and Superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1).
What is a method of drug delivery using microneedles?
Microneedles provide a minimally invasive method for delivering extracellular vesicles (EVs).
