The role of extracellular vesicles in embryo development: implications for reproductive health and therapeutic potential.

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) contain various biological molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and diverse nucleic acids, which alter various physiological and pathological processes in recipient cells. This review focuses on the current understanding of the biological characteristics of EVs on embryo development and their potential therapeutic value in treating reproductive disorders. EVs play a crucial role in early embryo development, from fertilization to the pre-implantation stage, gastrulation, cell differentiation, and organogenesis. During the pre-implantation period, EVs interact with maternal reproductive tissue and promote implantation receptivity. In gastrulation, EVs regulate cell differentiation, contributing to tissue formation and maintenance. Abnormal bioactive molecules in EVs are closely related to developmental disorders. Thus, EVs have the potential to serve as biomarkers. Moreover, EVs can serve as therapeutic agents, delivering genetic material for targeted tissue/organs. The findings of this review highlight the potential role of EVs in intercellular signaling during embryo development. This can help advance assisted reproductive technologies and therapies to overcome infertility issues and developmental disorders.