A schematic representation of a cell actively releasing exosomes into the extracellular space

Exosomes, small membrane-bound vesicles (30-150 nm in diameter), are shown budding off from the plasma membrane. These vesicles originate from the endosomal system and are released when multivesicular bodies fuse with the plasma membrane. Exosomes carry proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that can influence neighboring cells or distant tissues, playing crucial roles in intercellular communication, immune responses, and disease progression.