Extracellular Vesicles: Role in Inflammatory Responses and Potential Uses in Vaccination in Cancer and Infectious Diseases

J Immunol Res. 2015:2015:832057. doi: 10.1155/2015/832057. Epub 2015 Aug 25.

Abstract

Almost all cells and organisms release membrane structures containing proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids called extracellular vesicles (EVs), which have a wide range of functions concerning intercellular communication and signaling events. Recently, the characterization and understanding of their biological role have become a main research area due to their potential role in vaccination, as biomarkers antigens, early diagnostic tools, and therapeutic applications. Here, we will overview the recent advances and studies of Evs shed by tumor cells, bacteria, parasites, and fungi, focusing on their inflammatory role and their potential use in vaccination and diagnostic of cancer and infectious diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication
  • Communicable Disease Control
  • Communicable Diseases / etiology*
  • Communicable Diseases / metabolism*
  • Extracellular Vesicles / immunology*
  • Extracellular Vesicles / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / etiology
  • Inflammation / metabolism
  • Inflammation / prevention & control
  • Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Signal Transduction
  • Vaccination