Exosomes – Spectacular role in reproduction
Alicja Kowalczyk, Marcjanna Wrzecińska, Ewa Czerniawska‐Piątkowska, Robert Kupczyński
Abstract
Exosomes are nano-sized structures that are found in semen, epididymal -fluid, endometrium, as well as in follicular fluid. They are responsible for transporting bioactive cargo- proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Exosomes have been proven to influence processes in both female and male reproductive systems, including gametogenesis, acrosomal reaction, sperm capacitation, and embryo implantation in the endometrium. Exosomes are made of the same particles as the cells they come from and are secreted by normal and pathological cells. Therefore, exosomes can reflect the physiological state of cells. Moreover, due to the transportation of biomolecules, they participate in intercellular communication and can be used as biomarkers of many diseases, including ovarian, endometrial and prostate cancer. Identification of exosomes as biomarkers could contribute to a better understanding of genital dysfunction and fertility disorders.