The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Aging: An Overview and Implications

Intracellular communication is greatly aided by extracellular vesicles (EVs), intriguing entities. Cells release these tiny, membrane-bound sacs, transporting bioactive substances to neighboring cells. Apoptotic bodies, microvesicles, and exosomes are the three primary categories of EVs. Each type has unique biogenesis and cargo, making them essential for different cellular processes. Due to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle variables, aging is a complicated biological process defined by a steady reduction in functional ability. Cellular and molecular aging involves telomere shortening, cellular senescence, DNA damage, and epigenetic changes, contributing to age-related phenotypes and diseases. The aging process impacts tissues and organs, leading to degeneration, immunosenescence, and neurodegeneration. EVs are involved in various aspects of aging, including inflammation, stem cell function, proteostasis, and neurodegenerative disorders. Changes in EV biogenesis, cargo composition, and release occur with age, influencing cell-to-cell communication and contributing to aging. EVs have potential as biomarkers of aging, offering noninvasive assessment and reflecting age-related changes. However, limitations such as individual variability, tissue-specificity, and ethical concerns need addressing. Integrating multiple biomarkers could enhance accuracy in assessing aging. Standardized protocols, comprehensive functional studies, and large-scale longitudinal investigations are necessary to fully harness the potential of EVs for aging research and therapeutic interventions. Understanding EV-mediated communication and cargo transfer will lead to targeted strategies for age-related diseases, ultimately contributing to healthier aging. Extracellular vesicles have recently been studied. Therefore, there is still much to learn about how they affect aging. According to research, these vesicles may be necessary for aging and an effective target for anti-aging therapies.