Biosynthetic exosome nanoparticles isolation, characterization, and their diagnostic and therapeutic applications

Abstract This chapter discusses exosome nanoparticles and their unique biomolecular functionality and role in diversified pathological conditions, cellular physiology, and related pathways. We examine and compare isolation and detection techniques for exosome analysis. Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles biosynthesized through the lysosomal pathway via fusion of multi-vesicular bodies (MVBs) with the cell membrane and exosomes are secreted by different cell types. Exosomes contain a mixture of proteins, nucleic acids, and lipid components with the exact signature characteristics of their parent cells. These entities can signal and change the phenotype of target cells, hence they can impact the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Exosomes have also been identified in several biological fluids, such as plasma, nasal lavage fluid, saliva, breast milk, and in edible plants like ginger, grapefruit, carrot, and grape. This review provides updated and comprehensive information about the isolation, characterization, and role of exosomes in diseases and therapeutics, with a special emphasis on their biomarker and drug delivery applications.