Korean J Intern Med.  2019 May;34(3):470-479. 10.3904/kjim.2019.108.

Extracellular vesicles in renal physiology and clinical applications for renal disease

• Kwon SH

• KMID: 2448338
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjim.2019.108

Abstract

Many cells in the nephron release extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs envelop nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. The surfaces of EVs express donor cell-specific markers, ligands, and major histocompatibility complex molecules. They are involved in cell-to-cell communication, immune modulation, and the removal of unwanted materials from cells. EVs have been studied as biomarkers of specific diseases and have potential therapeutic applications. Recent research has emphasized the functions of EVs in the kidney. This review provides an overview of recent findings related to the roles of EVs in the nephron, and their utility as biomarkers and therapeutic factors in renal disease.

Keyword

Extracellular vesicles; Cells; Communication; Kidney

MeSH Terms

Biomarkers
Extracellular Vesicles*
Humans
Kidney
Ligands
Major Histocompatibility Complex
Nephrons
Nucleic Acids
Physiology*
Tissue Donors
Biomarkers
Ligands
Nucleic Acids