Open AccessExtracellular vesicles and female reproduction
Author(s) -
Ronit Machtinger,
Andrea A. Baccarelli,
Haotian Wu
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of assisted reproduction and genetics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1573-7330
pISSN - 1058-0468
DOI - 10.1007/s10815-020-02048-2
Subject(s) - microbiology and biotechnology , biology , vesicle , extracellular vesicles , extracellular , folliculogenesis , reproductive medicine , signal transduction , reproduction , embryo , embryogenesis , genetics , membrane , pregnancy
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized membrane bound complexes that have been identified as a mean for intercellular communication between cells and tissues both in physiological and pathological conditions. These vesicles contain numerous molecules involved in signal transduction including microRNAs, mRNAs, DNA, proteins, lipids, and cytokines and can affect the behavior of recipient cells. Female reproduction is dependent on extremely fine-tuned endocrine regulation, and EVs may represent an added layer that contributes to this regulation. This narrative review article provides an update on the research of the role of EVs in female reproduction including folliculogenesis, fertilization, embryo quality, and implantation. We also highlight potential pitfalls in typical EV studies and discuss gaps in the current literature.