The Distinct Role of Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Normal and Cancer Stem Cells

Purpose of Review: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a powerful tool for intercellular messages. EVs display many characteristics of the cell of origin and may mimic the biological activities of cells. In this review, we summarize the updated knowledge regarding the biological role of EVs released by both types of healthy somatic stem cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs). Adult somatic stem cells influence the regeneration and healing of damaged tissues in various models of tissue injury; on the other hand, CSCs retain some characteristics of healthy stem cells, however, they sustain tumor progression and metastasis formation. Recent Findings: Recent studies highlight the role of EVs in biological processes. EVs contain proteins (receptors, enzymes, transcription and growth factors), genetic materials (mRNAs, miRNAs, and DNAs), and a specific lipid pattern that together induce epigenetic changes in recipient cells. Summary: Most cell types release EVs influencing physiological or pathological conditions. EV activities depend on their cargo. EVs released by healthy stem cells appear to accelerate the recovery of an injured tissue in several experimental conditions, while EVs shed by CSCs promote tumor progression by stimulating angiogenesis, tumor growth, tumor immune escape, and metastasis. © 2017, Springer International Publishing AG.