Role of lipid signalling in extracellular vesicles-mediated cell-to-cell communication

Cytokine Growth Factor Rev. 2023 Oct:73:20-26. doi: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2023.08.006. Epub 2023 Aug 23.

Abstract

Lipid signalling plays a crucial role in extracellular vesicle (EV)-mediated cell-to-cell communication. Extracellular vesicles are small membrane-bound structures released by various cell types into the extracellular environment. They include exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies. These vesicles contain a variety of bioactive molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids (such as miRNAs and mRNAs), and lipids. Lipids are important components of EVs and are involved in various aspects of their biogenesis, cargo sorting, and functional effects on target cells. In this review, we will discuss how lipid signalling is involved in EV-mediated cell-to-cell communication. In summary, lipid signalling is intricately involved in extracellular vesicle-mediated cell-to-cell communication. The lipid composition of EVs influences their biogenesis, cargo sorting, interactions with target cells, and functional effects on recipient cells. Understanding the role of lipids in EV-mediated communication is essential for deciphering the mechanisms underlying intercellular signalling and developing potential therapeutic strategies based on EVs.

Keywords: Bioactive lipids; Cell-to-cell communication; Epilipidome; Extracellular vesicles; Lipid biomarkers; Lipid metabolism.

Publication types

  • Review