IJMS, Vol. 24, Pages 9805: P2X7 Receptor and Extracellular Vesicle Release

IJMS, Vol. 24, Pages 9805: P2X7 Receptor and Extracellular Vesicle Release

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms24129805

Authors: Maria Teresa Golia Martina Gabrielli Claudia Verderio

Extensive evidence indicates that the activation of the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), an ATP-gated ion channel highly expressed in immune and brain cells, is strictly associated with the release of extracellular vesicles. Through this process, P2X7R-expressing cells regulate non-classical protein secretion and transfer bioactive components to other cells, including misfolded proteins, participating in inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize and discuss the studies addressing the impact of P2X7R activation on extracellular vesicle release and their activities.