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Emerging roles of Leishmania exosomes in immunomodulation and theranostics

cell-biology
microbiology
parasitology

Abstract

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, affecting millions worldwide, particularly in developing countries. This parasite has evolved key mechanisms to avoid the host immune system, including the release of small extracellular vesicles called exosomes. Recent studies have identified that Leishmania parasites produce and release exosomes that carry a range of virulence factors. These exosomes play important roles in the parasite's survival and pathogenesis. In this review, the current understanding of Leishmania exosomes, their biogenesis, cargo, and functions was comprehensively discussed. In addition, this review summarizes the potential applications of Leishmania exosomes in diagnosis, vaccine development, and drug delivery. Leishmania exosomes impact on host-pathogen interaction, deliver molecular cargo and virulence factors which regulate the host’s gene expression and modulate their immune response. Further research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of Leishmania exosomes for translational applications.
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