Abstract
Eukaryotic cells employ distinct means to release specific signals and material. Research within the last decade has identified different types of membrane-enclosed structures collectively called extracellular vesicles (EVs) as one of them. EVs fall into two categories depending on their subcellular origin. Exosomes are generated within the endosomal system and reach the extracellular space upon fusion of multivesicular bodies. Microvesicles or microparticles are generated by shedding of the plasma membrane. Sterols are essential components of eukaryotic membranes and serve as precursors or cofactors of numerous signaling molecules; their content and subcellular distribution are tightly controlled. The prominent roles of sterols in cells raise the question of whether and how these components impact EVs. In this review, we compile evidence for cholesterol accumulation in EVs and discuss its possible contribution to their biogenesis, release, and uptake. We also consider potential implications of EVs in cellular sterol homeostasis and in cholesterol-related diseases.
Highlights
Eukaryotic cells employ distinct means to release specific signals and material
extracellular vesicle (EV) are thought to serve various functions depending on their origin and molecular composition: exosomes generated by invagination of endosomal membranes and by subsequent release of multivesicular bodies (MVBs) may transfer signaling molecules, such as miRNA, transcripts, proteins, and lipids, to specific target cells and thereby serve intercellular communication
This approach revealed cholesterol-positive and -negative MVBs in cultured B lymphocytes. Only those enriched in cholesterol appeared to fuse with the cell surface to release exosomes, suggesting that the cholesterol content of MVBs controls the release of EVs
Summary
Cholesterol levels in EVs have been investigated extensively using a large spectrum of experimental models and methodological approaches (Table 1). (F.W.P.), Fédération pour la Recherche sur le Cerveau (Rotary Club “Espoir en tête”) (F.W.P.), Vaincre les Maladies Lysosomales (F.W.P.), and Ligue Contre le Cancer (N.V.). Manuscript received 7 February 2018 and in revised form 5 April 2018.
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