Exosomes: Potential model for complement-stealth delivery systems

Abstract

Exosomes are nature's nanocarriers that transport biological information in humans. Their structural properties, origin and functions are making them interesting objects for the diagnosis of diseases, such as cancer, and also, as innovative tools for drug delivery. The interaction of exosomes with the immune system has been one of the focal points of interest; nevertheless their "stealth" properties helping to avoid adverse immune reactions are still not fully understood. In this review, after giving an overview of recent findings on the role of exosomes in disease pathogenesis and physiological functions, we focused on their interaction with the immune system and possibilities for clinical applications. The potential of exosomes of creating stealth nanoparticles that are better tolerated by the immune system than the presently available synthetic drug delivery systems represent a promising new approach in nanomedicine. © 2015 by De Gruyter 2015.