Recent advances of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration

Exosomes are 30-150 nm extracellular vesicles that are secreted by almost all types of cells. Exosomes contain a variety of biologically active substances, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, and are important in the intercellular communication of biological mediators involved in nerve injury and repair, vascular regeneration, immune response, fibrosis formation, and many other pathophysiological processes. Although it has been extensively studied in the field of cancer, the exploration of ocular diseases has only just begun. Here, we discuss the latest developments in exosomes for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including the pathogenesis of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration, their potential as diagnostic markers, and therapeutic vectors of the disease. Finally, the study of exosomes in age-related macular degeneration is still relatively few, and more detailed basic research and clinical trials are needed to verify its application in treatment and diagnosis, so as to adopt more personalized diagnosis and treatment strategies to stop the progression of age-related macular degeneration.

Automated summary

Exosomes are small vesicles secreted by various cells and contain biologically active substances. They play important roles in intercellular communication in various physiological processes. In this article, we discuss the latest developments in exosomes related to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including its pathogenesis, potential as diagnostic markers, and therapeutic vectors. Further research and clinical trials are needed to explore the application of exosomes in the treatment and diagnosis of AMD in order to develop personalized strategies to halt its progression.