Progress in the exosomes mediating SARS-CoV-2 infection and transmission

Abstract

Exosomes play vital roles in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 infection. The infection and transmission of the disease is regulated by exosomes and their components, such as nucleic acids, proteins and other substances. The exosomes with COVID-19 particles are produced via the endosomal pathway from the infected cells, and mediate the viral infection and transmission to healthy cells, finally ending with the results of tissue damage and multiple organ dysfunctions. As the key mediators of intercellular communication, exosomes activate the immune system and enhance the response against virus invasion. In addition, COVID-19 may escape from immunity with the help of exosomes; this may be a potential way of reinfection. The role of exosomes in novel coronavirus infection and transmission provides important clues for the development of potential technology for the diagnosis and prevention.

Keywords

• exosomes|sars-cov-2|covid-19