Exosomes have evolved into novel candidates as diagnostic tools due to their composition of proteins and nucleic acids and ability to cross hypoxic regions, the systemic circulation and blood vessel barriers. Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles that contain information from their source cells and are found in almost all body fluids. In this chapter, we have focused on basic biogenesis, contents, and functions of these unique particles, and provide a comprehensive discussion on their usefulness as novel diagnostic tools in various diseases. In addition, these unique features make them potential candidates for development of advanced therapeutics and monitoring thereof.
Keywords: Cancer; Cardiovascular disease; Diagnostic tools; Exosomes; Neurodegenerative disease; Pregnancy disorders.
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