[Exosomes: Nanodust? German version]. / Exosomen: Nanostaub?

Until recently, exosomes were considered to be dust in electron microscopy. This perception has changed dramatically in the past few years. A new research field has emerged aiming to describe the formation, release, and function of these nanoparticles. The role of exosomes evolved from garbage bins to biologically active, selectively secreted particles that are part of a novel and broader messaging system. They were shown to display immunomodulatory properties. Today, exosomes are regarded as attractive targets for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, especially in the field of oncology.