Extracellular vesicles in pregnancy-related disorders: from mechanisms to clinical implications

The discovery of extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, microvesicles, and shedding vesicles, signifies a paradigm shift in our understanding of cellular communication and a variety of biological processes, encompassing immune regulation, disease pathogenesis, and tissue repair. Particularly in the realm of pregnancy-related diseases, EVs have unveiled new perspectives and tools for deciphering the molecular mechanisms underlying pregnancy and its associated disorders. Emerging evidence indicates the multifaceted role of EVs in placental formation, regulation of maternal-fetal immune balance, and the development of pregnancy complications. The review aims to synthesize current research findings on the potential applications of EVs in pregnancy diseases and may help identify the EVs as diagnostic or therapeutic strategies for pregnancy-related disorders.