The functions and applications of extracellular vesicles derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) originating from bacteria function critical roles in bacterial biologic physiology and host-pathogen interactions. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) produces EVs both in vitro and in vivo, with membrane-bound nanoparticles facilitating the transmission of biological molecules including lipids, proteins, nucleic acids and glycolipids, while interacting remotely with the host. Although studies of EVs in mycobacterial infections is still in its infancy, it has already revealed an entirely new aspect of M. tuberculosishost interactions that may have implications for tuberculosis (TB) pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss the significant functions of M. tuberculosis EVs in elucidating the mechanisms underlying vesicle biogenesis and modulating cellular immune responses, as well as the recent advances and challenges in the development of novel preventive and therapeutic or diagnostic strategies against TB.

Automated summary

Extracellular vesicles originating from Mycobacterium tuberculosis play critical roles in bacterial physiology and host-pathogen interactions. They facilitate the transmission of biological molecules and interact with the host, revealing new aspects of tuberculosis pathogenesis. This review discusses the significant functions of M. tuberculosis EVs in vesicle biogenesis, modulating cellular immune responses, and the development of preventive, therapeutic, or diagnostic strategies against tuberculosis.