Journal of Isfahan Medical School

Journal of Isfahan Medical School

The Role of Exosomes in Fertility and Pregnancy-Related Diseases in Women

Document Type : Review Article

Authors
1 Department of Genetics and Molecular biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2 Isfahan University of medical sciences, Genetics and molecular biology department
10.48305/jims.2026.43525.2583
Abstract
Exosomes are a subset of extracellular vesicles (EVs) ranging in size from 30 to 150 nm that can be released from most cell types and circulate in body fluids including blood, saliva, urine, breast milk, follicular fluid (FF) and endometrial fluid. They act as a cell-to-cell communication mechanism that determines the gene expression profile and fate of target cells. Exosomes carry components such as proteins, lipids and nucleic acids that are involved in a variety of physiological processes as well as in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Exosomes have been shown to influence processes in the female reproductive system, including fertilization, implantation, placentation and fetal development. Therefore, they contain genetic and proteomic information that can be used as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in pregnancy-related disorders. In this context, the present review aims to gather information on exosomes with molecular components leading to diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian failure (POF), endometriosis and Asherman syndrome. This work may help us understand the cause of reproductive disorders and their early diagnosis.

Highlights

Mohammad Kazemi: Google Scholar

Keywords
Subjects


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 01 September 2026

  • Receive Date 29 July 2025
  • Accept Date 25 July 2026