Cargoes of exosomes function as potential biomarkers for Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

Exosomes as double-membrane vesicles contain various contents of lipids, proteins, mRNAs and non-coding RNAs, and involve in multiple physiological processes, for instance intercellular communication and immunomodulation. Currently, numerous studies found that the components of exosomal proteins, nucleic acids or lipids released from host cells are altered following infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Exosomal contents provide excellent biomarkers for the auxiliary diagnosis, efficacy evaluation, and prognosis of tuberculosis. This study aimed to review the current literatures detailing the functions of exosomes in the procedure of M. tuberculosis infection, and determine the potential values of exosomes as biomarkers to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of tuberculosis.

Automated summary

Exosomes are double-membrane vesicles containing various lipids, proteins, mRNAs, and non-coding RNAs, and are involved in multiple physiological processes such as intercellular communication and immunomodulation. Studies have found that the components of exosomes released from host cells are altered following Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The contents of exosomes provide excellent biomarkers for the diagnosis, efficacy evaluation, and prognosis of tuberculosis.