Abstract
The ability of exosomes to transport different molecular cargoes and their ability to influence various physiological factors is already well known. An exciting area of research explores the functions of exosomes in healthy and pathological pregnancies. Placenta-derived exosomes were identified in the maternal circulation during pregnancy and their contribution in the crosstalk between mother and fetus are now starting to become defined. In this review, we will try to summarize actual knowledge about this topic and to answer the question of how important exosomes are for a healthy pregnancy.
Highlights
Intensive maternal-fetal information exchange is required to establish and to maintain a healthy pregnancy
We summarize the role of exosomes in healthy and pathological pregnancies
C19MC-derived miRNAs are expressed in villous trophoblasts and secreted into the maternal circulation via exosomes where they function in placental-maternal signaling [29,30]
Summary
Intensive maternal-fetal information exchange is required to establish and to maintain a healthy pregnancy. The placenta is the most important organ in this respect, performing vital functions for the fetus to support its growth and survival and to maintain the pregnancy [1]. Cellular communication is mediated through direct cell-to-cell contacts, soluble factors, intercellular nanotubes, and extracellular vesicles [3]. Placental cells of both maternal and embryonic origin, secrete soluble endocrine mediators and extracellular vesicles, including exosomes. Other pregnancy complications can result from dysfunctional placental communication causing severe danger for the survival of the fetus [4]. We summarize the role of exosomes in healthy and pathological pregnancies
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