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The biology and function of exosomes in cancer
Raghu Kalluri
Raghu Kalluri
Published April 1, 2016
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2016;126(4):1208-1215. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI81135.
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Category: Review Series

The biology and function of exosomes in cancer

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Abstract

Humans circulate quadrillions of exosomes at all times. Exosomes are a class of extracellular vesicles released by all cells, with a size range of 40–150 nm and a lipid bilayer membrane. Exosomes contain DNA, RNA, and proteins. Exosomes likely remove excess and/or unnecessary constituents from the cells, functioning like garbage bags, although their precise physiological role remains unknown. Additionally, exosomes may mediate specific cell-to-cell communication and activate signaling pathways in cells they fuse or interact with. Exosomes are detected in the tumor microenvironment, and emerging evidence suggests that they play a role in facilitating tumorigenesis by regulating angiogenesis, immunity, and metastasis. Circulating exosomes can be used as liquid biopsies and noninvasive biomarkers for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer patients.

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Raghu Kalluri

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