Abstract:

ABSTRACT  Exosomes are nanovesicles originating from multivesicular bodies (MVBs) and secreted into the extracellular space or body fluids when a multivesicular body (endocytic origin) fuses with the plasma membrane. Exosomes contain multiple proteins, mRNAs，microRNAs，and signaling molecules that may reflect the physiological state of their cells of origin and consequently provide potential biomarkers. At present, the studies on exosomes are mostly focused on their roles in immunology and oncology and exosome-based immunotherapy has become a new means in cancer treatment and immune tolerance. In recent years, urinary exosomes (UE) and their roles in kidney diseases have been receiving great attention. Exosomes are secreted to the urine from all types of renal epithelial cell, including glomerular podocytes, renal tubular cells, and the cells lining the urinary drainage system. Thus, urinary exosomes have potential as a source of valuable biomarkers for early detection of kidney diseases. The present review aims to summarize their biological characteristics, and their potential uses in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease.

Key words: exosomes , kidney disease , urinary  , biomakers