Extracellular vesicles (EVs), with exosomes as a significant subgroup, play a crucial role in cellular communication. First introduced by Johnstone et al. in 1983 during erythrocyte differentiation studies, exosomes were officially identified in 1987 through ultracentrifugation. These membrane-bound vesicles, formed by the fusion of multivesicular bodies with the cell membrane, typically range in diameter from 40 nm to 100 nm. Exosomes vary in shape, from flat to spherical, with some exhibiting a cup-shaped morphology. In bodily fluids, they predominantly appear as spherical entities.
Exosomes often carry proteins that are overexpressed in tumor cells, reflecting the cell's origin and biological function. Tumor-derived exosomes (Tex) are crucial in cancer progression, containing significant amounts of mRNA and microRNA (miRNA). Initially thought of as cellular waste, exosomes are now recognized for their active role in transporting biomolecules and influencing tumor development, with secretion from immune cells, stem cells, and tumor cells occurring under both physiological and pathological conditions.
These vesicles are characterized by their small size, which helps them evade mononuclear phagocytes and cross vascular barriers, making them prevalent in bodily fluids. Their phospholipid bilayer structure ensures biological stability and resistance to degradation. Tumor cells release a higher volume of exosomes compared to normal cells, showing considerable variability in size and surface proteins, which is valuable for distinguishing between different tumors and normal cells.
In the tumor microenvironment, exosomes are integral to cellular communication, impacting tumor initiation, development, metastasis, immune evasion, and drug resistance.
Exosomes in Plastic and Cosmetic Applications
Beyond cancer therapy, exosomes have garnered attention in medical aesthetics. Often hailed as "anti-aging treasures" and "revolutionary technologies," exosomes are seen as a "fountain of youth" for enhancing beauty. Their uses extend to anti-aging, regenerative repair, and addressing issues like skin aging, texture improvement, skin tone alteration, and hair loss.
The "2022-2040 Exosome Therapy Market Report" by Roots Analysis projects a 41% annual growth rate in the exosome therapy market. Exosome-based beauty treatments, which involve the application of exosomes rich in RNA and membrane proteins, can be used topically or introduced into the skin. These treatments work by regulating cells, promoting continuous regeneration, and improving skin appearance, including applications in anti-aging, whitening, sensitive repair, inflammation repair, and scar treatment.
Exosomes are available in three primary forms:
Frozen Exosomes: Primarily for research purposes, these are not suitable for large-scale production due to complex storage and application requirements.
Freeze-Dried Powder Exosomes: These may lose activity due to membrane structure changes during vacuum freezing.
Vitalized Exosomes: Suspended in a liquid matrix, these maintain structural integrity and activity at an optimal temperature of 37°C, making them suitable for storage, transportation, and use.
These forms are closely linked to upstream exosome analysis technologies, such as isolation, purification, engineering, and manufacturing, which facilitate the discovery of new biomarkers and offer additional options for early disease diagnosis and treatment.
