Progress in researh of of exosomes in tumor progression

Exosome is a nanosized membrane microvesicle of endocytic origin secreted by most cell types. Exosome can carry proteins and RNAs from derived cells and may be involved in cell-to-cell substance transporting and signaling. Recently, accumulated studies have shown that the exosome may play an important role in tumor progression by regulating anti-tumor immune responses and promoting tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. Exosome can be potentially used in tumor diagnosis. This review summarizes the progression of exosome in tumor development. DOI:10.3781/j.issn.1000-7431.2011.06.018