Page 24 - 2014 Printable Abstract Book
P. 24
specialized functions and play a key role in, for example, coagulation, intercellular signaling, and waste
management. Their function is determined by cell type and conditions of release. Moreover, given their
small size and membrane protective coat, exosomes are capable of traveling throughout the body to
influence cell function at distant sites. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the clinical applications
of exosomes and their potential use for prognosis, therapy, and as biomarkers of health and disease.
Numerous publications discuss how cancer radiation therapies influence exosome-mediated intercellular
signaling. However, far fewer studies pertain to the effects of radiation on cellular release and uptake
mechanisms of exosome-cell interactions and their role in mediating targeted and non-targeted effects
of ionizing radiation. This presentation will first review the existing literature on how radiation affects the
morphological and functional properties of exosomes including their molecular contents, in different cells
types. It will then focus in depth on recent advances in our understanding of important roles played by
microvesicles / exosomes in the intercellular signaling that mediates initiation and perpetuation of
genomic instability (GI) and bystander effects (BE). Possible mechanisms incorporating these key advances
in the field of radiation biology will be discussed in an effort to explain exosomes contribution to intra-
cellular, and particularly inter-cellular, communication of non-targeted effects that are integral
components of ionizing radiation’s effect on human health.
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management. Their function is determined by cell type and conditions of release. Moreover, given their
small size and membrane protective coat, exosomes are capable of traveling throughout the body to
influence cell function at distant sites. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the clinical applications
of exosomes and their potential use for prognosis, therapy, and as biomarkers of health and disease.
Numerous publications discuss how cancer radiation therapies influence exosome-mediated intercellular
signaling. However, far fewer studies pertain to the effects of radiation on cellular release and uptake
mechanisms of exosome-cell interactions and their role in mediating targeted and non-targeted effects
of ionizing radiation. This presentation will first review the existing literature on how radiation affects the
morphological and functional properties of exosomes including their molecular contents, in different cells
types. It will then focus in depth on recent advances in our understanding of important roles played by
microvesicles / exosomes in the intercellular signaling that mediates initiation and perpetuation of
genomic instability (GI) and bystander effects (BE). Possible mechanisms incorporating these key advances
in the field of radiation biology will be discussed in an effort to explain exosomes contribution to intra-
cellular, and particularly inter-cellular, communication of non-targeted effects that are integral
components of ionizing radiation’s effect on human health.
22 | P a g e
