Longevity & Aging

Extracellular Vesicles Show Promise as Heart Attack Therapy and Diagnostic Tool

This comprehensive review examines extracellular vesicles (EVs) - tiny cellular messengers that carry proteins, RNA, and other biomolecules between cells. In acute myocardial infarction (heart attacks), EVs play a dual role: they can worsen damage by promoting cell death and inflammation, but also facilitate healing by enhancing blood vessel formation and reducing scarring. The authors detail EV biogenesis pathways and highlight their potential as both diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic delivery vehicles. This emerging field could transform cardiovascular medicine by providing new treatment strategies and improved diagnostic capabilities for heart attack patients.