Probiotic-Derived Extracellular Vesicles As Immunomodulatory Agents in Autoimmune Disease Management Publisher



Sadeghzadeh M ; Farhadi S ; Rahmati H ; Darabi Z ; Ehsani FZ ; Basirat M ; Amini M
Source: Nanomedicine Research Journal Published:2025

Abstract

Probiotics have been extensively studied for their ability to restore microbial balance, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and regulate immune responses in humans. Among their bioactive components, probiotic-derived extracellular vesicles (PEVs) have emerged as key mediators of host–microbe interactions. PEVs are lipid-bilayer-enclosed postbiotic secreted by both Gram-negative and Gram-positive probiotic species, carrying diverse molecular cargo including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and metabolites. These vesicles enable targeted communication between probiotics and host cells, allowing them to exert biological effects independent of the viability of the parent bacteria. However, the biological activity and therapeutic potential of PEVs are influenced by multiple factors, such as the bacterial species of origin, culture conditions, and the methods used for their isolation and purification. Growing evidence indicates that PEVs play pivotal roles in modulating inflammation, enhancing gut barrier integrity, regulating metabolic pathways, and shaping host immune responses. This review summarizes an overview of current knowledge regarding the characteristics, functional mechanisms, and biomedical applications of PEVs, with a particular emphasis on their emerging role in the management of autoimmune-mediated disorders. © 2025 Tehran University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.