Significance of exosomes in COVID-19 pathogenesis and therapy

Exosomes are lipid bilayer-enclosed nano-sized vesicles, which carry various biomolecules including proteins, lipids, and microRNAs. SARS-CoV-2-loaded exosomes can be entered into the susceptible host cells, and transported viral components which are associated with viral particles intercellular transmission and spread of infection. Over-stimulation of the immune system followed by excessive proinflammatory cytokine production is a hallmark of COVID-19. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes are a potential therapeutic option in COVID-19 due to their ability to decrease cytokine storm, improve tissue regeneration, and prevent multi-organs failure. Unraveling the exact role of exosomes underlying COVID-19 infection will be beneficial in understanding novel aspects of COVID-19 pathogenesis and therapy. This study aimed to investigate the importance of exosomes in COVID-19.