Journal of Stem Cell Research & Therapy

Abstract

Extracellular Vesicles as an Emerging Paradigm of Cell-to-Cell Communication in Stem Cell Biology

Jong-Kuen Lee, Ji-Young Jang, Yoon-Kyung Jeon and Chul-Woo Kim

Recently, a growing body of literature supports the novel concept that extracellular vesicles, including exosomes and microvesicles, play a significant role in intercellular communication. Extracellular vesicles are released from various cell types and physically internalized by other cells. The discoveries that extracellular vesicles carry functional molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids raise the possibility that they may dynamically modulate cellular activities of recipient cells by transferring their bioactive contents to target cells. In particular, it has been suggested that extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells may deliver specific signals to the microenvironment, regulating cell proliferation and differentiation and tissue regeneration. In this review, we will discuss the biomolecular characteristics of stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles and their potential application in regenerative medicine.