A novel cell-cell communication mechanism in the nervous system: exosomes.

Exosomes are small extracellular membrane-based vesicles with a variety of cargoes that are involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes in the nervous system. Accumulating evidence has implicated that exosomes are emerging as a novel form of intercellular communication within the nervous system. In this review, we first illustrate exosome metabolism including its formation, secretion, transport, and uptake. Second, we compare exosomes to synaptic vesicles in terms of intercellular messengers and communicators. Third, we discuss the roles and prospects of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.