Extracellular microvesicles: biologic properties, biogenesis, and applications in leukemia.

Abstract

Microvesicles are cellular membrane vesicles of which size is limited to 30-1000nm. Almost all cells release them in response to activation signals and apoptosis. Their ability for intercellular communication and enhancement of potential for information exchange (between them) has attracted much interest. Their content is affected by the content of the mother cell, which can help identify their origin. Furthermore, these particles can change the physiology of the target cells by transferring a set of molecules to them and changing the epigenetics of the cells by transferring DNA and RNA. These changes can be induced in cells close to the mother and distant cells. Significant activities of these microvesicles are known both in physiological and pathologic conditions. In this regard, we have reviewed these small particle elements, their contents, and the way of synthesis. Finally, we discussed their current known roles to reveal more potential applications in leukemia.