Q1: What are exosomes?
A1: Exosomes are small, membrane-bound vesicles released by cells. They are part of a larger group of vesicles known as extracellular vesicles, which also include microvesicles and apoptotic bodies. Exosomes typically range in size from about 30 to 150 nanometers in diameter.
(Please note Exosomes and Extracellular Vesicles are categorized and named differently in INCI applications, depending on the attributes recognized by the committee members based on the technical information and data provided during the application process.)
Q2: What are Exosomes roles in cells/tissues? And their applications?
A2: Exosomes play significant roles in cell-to-cell communication. They carry a variety of molecular contents such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids (including RNAs), which they can transfer to other cells. This transfer can influence the behavior and state of the recipient cells. Their ability to deliver bioactive molecules, such as microRNAs, makes them promising in regenerative medicine, drug delivery, and diagnostics. The field is exploring how exosomes can be used in drug delivery, as they have the potential to carry therapeutic agents directly to specific cells or tissues. In addition, their role in intercellular communication and their ability to transfer molecules between cells make exosomes a topic of interest in biomedical research, particularly in areas like biomarkers for disease diagnosis and targets for therapy.
Q3: What role might exosomes play in skin care?
A3: In recent years, numerous journal articles have explored and revealed the effectiveness of exosomes in skin care. Exosomes have been found to carry bioactive molecules that promote intercellular communication and regeneration. Some reports indicate that through the delivery of specific proteins and nucleic acids, exosomes may aid in collagen production, skin hydration, and overall recovery. There are also studies suggesting that exosomes play a role in reducing signs of aging, decreasing wrinkles, and improving skin texture. Moreover, numerous studies point out that exosomes can reduce inflammatory responses. However, the effectiveness of exosomes can vary significantly depending on their source and production process, necessitating careful exploration, interpretation, and confirmation.