Exosome

Exosomes are a distinct class of nanoscale (typically 30-150 nm in diameter) extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by virtually all cell types into the extracellular environment and various bodily fluids, including blood, urine, saliva, and cerebrospinal fluid. Initially considered cellular "garbage bags" for waste disposal, exosomes are now recognized as sophisticated messengers mediating complex and highly specific intercellular communication. They play crucial roles in both physiological processes and the pathogenesis of numerous diseases.