TARGETING THE OPHTHALMIC DISEASES USING EXTRACELLULAR VESICLES "EXOSOMES: CURRENT INSIGHTS ON THEIR CLINICAL APPROVAL AND PRESENT TRIALS

Abstract

The emerging field of exosome biology has unveiled a new dimension in understanding the intricate mechanisms underlying ophthalmic diseases. Exosomes, nanoscale extracellular vesicles, play pivotal roles in intercellular communication, influencing diverse cellular processes within the ocular microenvironment. In normal ocular physiology, exosomes act as messengers, mediating cell-to-cell communication that is essential for maintaining homeostasis. They influence processes such as tissue development, immune regulation, and tissue repair, reflecting their multifaceted functions in ocular health. The dysregulation of exosome-mediated communication has been implicated in various ophthalmic diseases, including retinal degenerative diseases, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and ocular inflammatory conditions. Stem cell-derived exosomes, neuronal cell-derived exosomes, dendritic cell-derived exosomes, and plasma-derived exosomes have all emerged as key players with distinct roles in disease pathogenesis. Exosomes found in bodily fluids, such as blood plasma, have garnered attention as potential biomarkers for ocular diseases, offering diagnostic insights. Furthermore, ongoing research explores the therapeutic potential of exosomes in addressing ocular disorders, with an emphasis on their regenerative, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. As our understanding of exosomes in ophthalmic diseases deepens, avenues for novel diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutic interventions continue to unfold. The exploration of specific cargo and signaling pathways within exosomes promises to unravel the molecular intricacies of disease progression, paving the way for innovative strategies in ophthalmic research and clinical applications.