Recent advances of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration

Abstract

Exosomes are 30-150 nm extracellular vesicles that are secreted by almost all types of cells. Exosomes contain a variety of biologically active substances, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, and are important in the intercellular communication of biological mediators involved in nerve injury and repair, vascular regeneration, immune response, fibrosis formation, and many other pathophysiological processes. Although it has been extensively studied in the field of cancer, the exploration of ocular diseases has only just begun. Here, we discuss the latest developments in exosomes for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including the pathogenesis of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration, their potential as diagnostic markers, and therapeutic vectors of the disease. Finally, the study of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration is still relatively few, and more detailed basic research and clinical trials are needed to verify its application in treatment and diagnosis, so as to adopt more personalized diagnosis and treatment strategies to stop the progression of age-related macular degeneration.

Keywords: age-related macular degeneration; diagnosis; exosomes; pathogenesis; treatment.

FIGURE 1

Illustrates the occurrence and mode of action of exosomes. Exosomes are initially formed through inward budding from cell membranes, resulting in the development of early endosomes, which then mature into late endosomes. The endosomal sorting complex required for transport mechanism facilitates the gradual accumulation of intraluminal vesicles in late endosomes, leading to the formation of MVBs. These MVBs can either fuse with lysosomes or release their contents outside the cell to form stable exosomes. In AMD, exosomes can be transmitted between cells, potentially contributing to the onset or treatment of diseases. Additionally, exosomes can serve as a diagnostic tool.

FIGURE 2

Role of exosomes in AMD. The role of exosomes AMD encompasses their potential to induce pathogenesis, serve as diagnostic biomarkers, and function as therapeutic carriers.