Exosomes are membranous extracellular vesicles with a size of 30–150 nm that are secreted by almost all cell types. They were originally considered cellular waste products, but have now been shown to be a essential role in the intercellular communication playThey transport proteins, lipids and RNA and regulate numerous physiological processes, including immune responses, tissue regeneration and metabolic regulation.
Due to their versatile functions, exosomes are increasingly becoming the focus of biomedical research, particularly with regard to their potential applications in regenerative medicine, diagnostics, and targeted drug delivery, including in dietary supplements. In this article, we discuss how exosomes work and take a closer look at their opportunities and potential.
Biogenesis and function of exosomes
Exosomes are formed within the cell through a specific sequence of intracellular processes:
Formation of multivesicular endosomes (MVEs)
Our cells contain small "factories" called endosomes. Within these endosomes, even smaller "packages" called exosomes are created. You can imagine this as if you squeeze in an air bubble, creating a new, small bubble inside.
There are two ways in which these exosomes are formed:
- With the help of a "sorting team": A complex system of proteins called ESCRT helps to properly form the exosomes.
- In other, as yet unknown ways: There are also mechanisms that function independently of ESCRT - but these are not yet fully understood.
When the endosome is full of these small exosome packets, we call it a multivesicular endosome (MVE). Imagine the MVE as a sack full of little messages. This sack then fuses with the cell wall and opens outward, releasing the exosomes. These exosomes then swim around the body, acting as messengers to deliver messages to other cells.
Exocytosis of exosomes
The MVEs (the "sacks" full of exosomes) fuse with the cell wall, thereby releasing the exosomes into the space outside the cell.
Interaction with target cells
Exosomes are small packages containing important information. When they dock onto or are taken up by other cells, they release their molecular contents. This content can alter cell function by initiating certain signaling pathways or leading to changes in tissue. Exosomes thus act like small regulators of cellular activity.
Regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs)
Exosomes transport a variety of microRNAs that can specifically enter target cells and regulate gene expression. These miRNAs can either inhibit or stimulate the production of specific proteins. (Learn more about this in the article on the topic.) Proteomics) This has significant implications for cellular processes such as Inflammations, tissue regeneration and cell protection.
For example, certain miRNAs in exosomes have been shown to suppress inflammatory signaling pathways and activate repair mechanisms in damaged tissues. Cancer research is investigating how exosomal miRNAs influence tumor progression and whether they can be used as a targeted therapeutic option.
Comparison of plant and human exosomes
Both animal and plant cells produce exosomes, but they differ in their molecular composition and potential applications:
| Characteristic | Human exosomes | Plant exosomes |
| origin | Stem cells, immune cells, epithelial cells | Plant cells (fruits, vegetables, herbs) |
| function | Immunomodulation, tissue regeneration, signal transduction | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties |
| composition | Proteins, microRNAs, lipids | Polyphenols, plant RNA |
| stability | Relatively unstable in the digestive tract | High stability and bioavailability |
While human exosomes are being researched for personalized therapies, plant-based exosomes have great potential as natural dietary supplements. Studies show that they anti-inflammatory effects and may affect the intestinal Microbiome Plant exosomes from grapes or broccoli contain bioactive molecules that could act as prebiotic substances.
Potential of exosomes for longevity and barriers to implementation
Due to the properties described above, exosomes could also play a very important role in longevity research, particularly in the following areas:
- Cellular senescence: Cellular senescence refers to a state in which cells irreversibly withdraw from the cell cycle. Exosomes could contribute to the elimination or reactivation of senescent cells, thus slowing the aging process.
- Mitochondrial function: Exosomes could be targeted mitochondrial dysfunctions which play a key role in age-related diseases.
- Immune regulation: By modulating the immune system, exosomes could inhibit chronic inflammatory processes that contribute to age-related diseases.
- Neurodegenerative diseases: Exosomes show promising approaches in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, as they neuronal regeneration could promote.
You can learn more about the molecular basis of the aging process at Hallmarks of Aging.
Why are exosomes not yet used more widely?
Despite their enormous potential, there are several challenges that currently limit the widespread application of exosomes in longevity medicine:
- Lack of standardization: The production and characterization of exosomes is complex and requires standardized protocols that are not yet fully established.
- Regulatory hurdles: The legal classification of exosomes as medicinal products or dietary supplements is unclear, complicating market entry. Furthermore, non-plant-based exosome therapies are not yet approved within the EU.
- Insufficient clinical studies: Many studies are still in the preclinical stage, and long-term data on safety and efficacy are lacking.
- Ethical questions: There are ethical concerns regarding the extraction and use of exosomes from human stem cells in particular.
Despite these challenges, continued research into exosomes will lead to their key role in longevity research and personalized medicine in the coming years. Advances in biotechnology, optimized manufacturing processes, and regulatory clarity are likely to pave the way.
Regulatory framework for exosomes in the EU
The legal classification of exosomes varies depending on the area of application:
- Drug: Human exosomes are subject to the EMA’s Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) Regulation and require comprehensive clinical testing.
- Dietary supplements: Plant exosomes could fall under the Novel Food Regulation (EU Regulation 2015/2283) if they represent a novel ingredient.
- Cosmetic products: Exosome-based skin care must comply with the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, with appropriate studies on safety and efficacy.
Exosomes in existing products and markets
Exosomes are already commercially available in various industries and have established themselves in certain areas:
Cosmetic applications
Exosome-containing skincare products are marketed by various brands as anti-aging solutions. These products contain exosomes that are said to stimulate collagen production and support skin regeneration. Some dermatological treatments also use exosomes to Skin rejuvenation and accelerate wound healing.
Regenerative medicine
Clinical trials are investigating the potential of exosomes to promote tissue regeneration. Initial applications show promising results in the treatment of cartilage defects and muscle injuries. Certain companies offer exosome-based injections for regenerative orthopedics and aesthetics.
Hair growth therapies
Exosomes are increasingly used in hair care products and scalp treatments with the intention of promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss. Clinical applications combine exosomes with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to stimulate hair follicle regeneration.
Functional foods and dietary supplements
Plant exosomes from foods such as grapes and ginger are used in dietary supplements to provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Some companies are developing exosome-rich foods to Microbiome to support and intestinal health to improve.
For example, exosomes from ginger are used in functional beverages and dietary supplements because they can deliver anti-inflammatory agents that are particularly beneficial for people with gastrointestinal complaints.
Drug development and drug delivery:
Pharmaceutical companies are researching exosomes as carriers for targeted drug delivery. Initial trials show that exosomes can precisely transport active ingredients to diseased tissues. Especially in oncology, exosomes are being investigated as vehicles for targeted drug delivery.
Advantages of exosomal applications
- Highly efficient Cell communication: Exosomes transmit biological signals specifically to target cells.
- Height Bioavailability: Plant exosomes are stable against digestive enzymes and enter the organism intact.
- Renewable potential: Exosomes are said to accelerate wound healing and tissue repair.
- Width Possible applications: Medicine, cosmetics and functional nutrition could benefit significantly from exosomes.
- Targeted drug delivery: Exosomes offer a possibility for targeted therapies through the transport of bioactive molecules.
Challenges and open questions
Despite the promising potential of exosomes, several hurdles remain that hamper widespread application. Long-term studies on safety and efficacy are lacking, making clinical approval difficult. Furthermore, regulatory requirements are inconsistent, as exosomes could be classified as pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, or cosmetic ingredients depending on their application. Depending on whether patenting is possible, there are more or less incentives from the private sector to invest substantial funds in research.
Production is also challenging: Isolation, purification, and scaling require complex biotechnological processes that are currently expensive. Furthermore, there are immunological risks, as exosomes can potentially trigger unexpected reactions in the immune system.
There are additional ethical concerns when using human exosomes, especially when they are derived from stem cells.Standardization of manufacturing processes and further research are necessary to establish exosomes as a safe and effective therapeutic tool.
Future prospects of exosome research
Exosomes are more than just cell fragments—they represent a highly sophisticated platform for cellular signaling and intercellular transport. While plant-derived exosomes are already being explored in functional nutrition, human exosomal applications face regulatory and technological challenges. Continued research will contribute to the further development of exosomes as an innovative therapeutic option for regenerative medicine, targeted drug delivery, and personalized medicine.
