Exosomes function in cell-cell communication during brain circuit development

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that mediate intercellular signaling in the brain without requiring direct contact between cells. Although exosomes have been shown to play a role in neurological diseases and in response to nerve trauma, a role for exosome-mediated signaling in brain development and function has not yet been demonstrated. Here the authors review data building a case for exosome function in the brain.

• Sharma P, Schiapparelli L, Cline HT. (2013) Exosomes function in cell-cell communication during brain circuit development. Curr Opin Neurobiol [Epub ahead of print]. [abstract]