Glial and blood-brain barrier cell-derived exosomes: Implications in stroke

Abstract

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles released by cells that play a pivotal role in intercellular communication, significantly influencing both the pathophysiology and potential treatment of ischemic stroke (IS). This review examines exosomes derived from key brain cell types, including microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (NG2+ cells), endothelial cells, and pericytes, emphasizing their molecular cargo and functional impact in IS. Microglia-derived exosomes regulate neuroinflammation, with M2-type exosomes exhibiting neuroprotective effects, while astrocyte-derived exosomes modulate pathways involved in pyroptosis and autophagy, influencing neuronal survival. Oligodendrocyte and NG2+ cell-derived exosomes contribute to remyelination, axonal growth, and inflammatory modulation. Endothelial and pericyte-derived exosomes play critical roles in BBB integrity, neurovascular remodeling, and drug transport across the BBB. This synthesis highlights recent advances in understanding how exosome-mediated communication impacts IS recovery and explores their translational potential for biomarker development and targeted therapies. By manipulating exosomal composition and delivery mechanisms, novel therapeutic strategies may emerge, offering hope for improved IS treatment outcomes.

Keywords: Blood-brain barrier; Exosomes; Glial cells; Ischemic stroke; Neuroprotection; Neuroregeneration.