Exosomes—the enigmatic regulators of bone homeostasis

Abstract

Exosomes are a heterogeneous group of cell-derived membranous structures, which mediate crosstalk interaction between cells. Recent studies have revealed a close relationship between exosomes and bone homeostasis. It is suggested that bone cells can spontaneously secret exosomes containing proteins, lipids and nucleic acids, which then to regulate osteoclastogenesis and osteogenesis. However, the network of regulatory activities of exosomes in bone homeostasis as well as their therapeutic potential in bone injury remain largely unknown. This review will detail and discuss the characteristics of exosomes, the regulatory activities of exosomes in bone homeostasis as well as the clinical potential of exosomes in bone injury.