Background: Red blood cells (RBCs) are nucleus- and organelle-free cells that play an essential role in respiratory gas transport, acid-base balance regulation, blood viscosity, and blood volume maintenance. Dysregulation in their quantity or function is associated with a broad spectrum of hematologic and systemic disorders. In recent years, extracellular vesicles (EVs), as cell-released membrane-bound nanoparticles, have garnered increasing attention for their capacity to transfer bioactive molecules and modulate the behavior of target cells. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Red Blood Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles (RBCEVs) by examining their pivotal roles in both physiological and pathological processes.
Methods: In this review article, relevant scientific literature indexed in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases was examined to explore the structural features, molecular composition, and physiological and pathological roles of RBCEVs.
Findings: Findings indicate that RBCEVs, carrying a diverse cargo of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, play a dual role in regulating physiological homeostasis and contributing to the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and transfusion-related adverse effects.
Conclusion: Despite significant advances in studying and characterizing these vesicles, many aspects of their biological functions and molecular interactions remain unclear. Accordingly, further studies are needed to elucidate the precise molecular mechanisms of RBCEVs.