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AAT Bioquest

What are the characteristics of exosomes?

Posted August 3, 2023


Answer

Exosomes are a specific type of extracellular vesicle produced by cells in the body. They are nano-sized particles ranging in size from about 30 nanometers to 150 nanometers in diameter. 

Exosomes have a protective outer layer made up of a lipid membrane, which encloses various molecules such as proteins, genetic material such as RNA, and other important substances.

On being released by a cell into its surroundings, exosomes travel through the body and interact with other cells. They act as messengers between cells and play a key role in carrying important information from a parent cell to a recipient cell. They also transfer proteins or genetic material from one cell to another, which can then influence the behavior or function of that cell. In addition, exosomes are involved in the disposal of cellular waste.

Additional resources

Review of the Isolation, Characterization, Biological Function, and Multifarious Therapeutic Approaches of Exosomes

DiOC16(3) perchlorate [3,3-Dihexadecyloxacarbocyanine perchlorate]

DiR iodide [1,1-dioctadecyl-3,3,3,3-tetramethylindotricarbocyanine iodide]