Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Glia-Neuron Intercellular Communication

Abstract

Cross talk between glia and neurons is crucial for a variety of biological functions, ranging from nervous system development, axonal conduction, synaptic transmission, neural circuit maturation, to homeostasis maintenance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which were initially described as cellular debris and were devoid of biological function, are now recognized as key components in cell-cell communication and play a critical role in glia-neuron communication. EVs transport the proteins, lipids, and nucleic acid cargo in intercellular communication, which alters target cells structurally and functionally. A better understanding of the roles of EVs in glia-neuron communication, both in physiological and pathological conditions, can aid in the discovery of novel therapeutic targets and the development of new biomarkers. This review aims to demonstrate that different types of glia and neuronal cells secrete various types of EVs, resulting in specific functions in intercellular communications.

Extracellular Vesicles: A Crucial Player in the Intestinal Microenvironment and Beyond

“…EVs have been shown to participate in the communication between glial cells and neuronal cells, and it is believed that EVs may change the morphology and function of target cells when transmitting information, regulating homeostasis, immune function and inter-glia communication. It plays a key role in the transfer of biomolecules [ 22 ]. However, as a carrier that can target systemic organs, the functions of EVs are complex and diverse, and there are also potential harmful effects.…”

RNA-Binding Proteins as Epigenetic Regulators of Brain Functions and Their Involvement in Neurodegeneration

“…Moreover, it has been found that oligodendrocytes of the central nervous system (CNS), as well as Schwann cells (SCs) of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), can even transfer ribosomes to neuronal axons [ 290 , 291 ]. Given this ability of SCs, as well as of oligodendrocytes, to release EVs that allow the lateral transfer of molecules to axons [ 292 , 293 , 294 ], it can be suggested that EVs are also involved in the transport to axons of ribosomes, which can then allow the local translation of pre-localized mRNAs, in response to specific extracellular signals.…”

Oligodendrocyte‐derived exosomes‐containing SIRT2 ameliorates depressive‐like behaviors and restores hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity via the AKT/GSK‐3β pathway in depressed mice

“…10 In the central nervous system (CNS), exosomes can regulate intercellular communication between glial cells and neurons to modulate neuroplasticity. 11,12 A recent study showed that exosomes secreted by microglia can upregulate and deliver mi-croRNAs (miRNAs) to inhibit neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG), consequently exacerbating depressive-like behaviors in rats subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). 13 Recent studies have highlighted a pivotal role for oligodendrocytes in the pathobiology of depression, given their critical functions in myelin sheath formation, support of axonal energy metabolism, and regulation of various neuroplasticity processes.…”

“…Exosomes are small, double‐membraned vesicles that envelope various biomolecular cargoes 10 . In the central nervous system (CNS), exosomes can regulate intercellular communication between glial cells and neurons to modulate neuroplasticity 11,12 . A recent study showed that exosomes secreted by microglia can upregulate and deliver microRNAs (miRNAs) to inhibit neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG), consequently exacerbating depressive‐like behaviors in rats subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) 13 …”