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The Vanderbilt Center for
Extracellular Vesicle Research

Extracellular vesicles: Critical players during cell migration

AUTHORS

Sung Bong Hwan , Parent Carole , Weaver Alissa , . . 2021 4 2; ().

ABSTRACT

Cell migration is essential for the development and maintenance of multicellular organisms, contributing to embryogenesis, wound healing, immune response, and other critical processes. It is also involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including immune deficiency disorders and cancer metastasis. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been shown to play important roles in cell migration. Here, we review recent studies describing the functions of EVs in multiple aspects of cell motility, including directional sensing, cell adhesion, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and leader-follower behavior. We also discuss the role of EVs in migration during development and disease and the utility of imaging tools for studying the role of EVs in cell migration.