What are Exosomes?

• Exosomes are small, membrane-bound vesicles released by cells into the extracellular space.
• They are an important means of communication between cells and play a role in various biological processes.

Structure and function of Exosomes

• Membrane-bound structure: The outer layer of exosomes is made of a phospholipid double layer, which provides it stability and protection.
• Transport of genetic material: They transport RNA, DNA, proteins and other biological molecules from one cell to another.
• Natural drug carriers: Exosomes have the ability to load therapeutic agents and deliver them to target cells.
• Cellular communication: They regulate the signalling process between cells and aid in immune response, tissue regeneration and nervous system functions.

SafeEXO-Cas Gene Editing Platform

What is SafeEXO-Cas?

• SafeEXO-Cas is a cutting-edge gene editing platform developed by scientists at Columbia University that uses exosomes to deliver the CRISPR-Cas9 system to target cells.
• This technology provides a more safe, effective and biocompatible solution for genome editing.

Key benefits of SafeEXO-Cas:

• Targeted Delivery: Exosomes can reach cells naturally, making gene editing more effective and controlled.
• Reduced Immune Response: This technology is able to deliver gene editing tools without stimulating the body's immune system.
• Non-Viral Delivery: Traditional methods used viruses, which could cause immune responses and other side effects. SafeEXO-Cas reduces these risks.
• Natural and Biocompatible: Since exosomes are naturally found in the body, they are easily absorbed by cells and do not cause any toxicity.
• Revolutionizing the treatment of diseases: This platform can prove to be a big step in the treatment of genetic disorders, cancer and other incurable diseases.

Potential applications of SafeEXO-Cas

Treatment of genetic disorders:

• Helps in the treatment of haemophilia, sickle cell anaemia and other genetic diseases.
• Helps in the formation of healthy cells by correcting faulty genes.

 Cancer treatment:

• Targets cancer cells and changes them through gene editing, which reduces the chances of cancer growth.
• Drug delivery through exosomes is more effective and safe in cancer therapy.

 Treatment of nervous system diseases:

• Provides potential treatment in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative diseases.
• Helps in treatment by making necessary gene changes in neurons (nerve cells).

 Immunotherapy:

• Strengthens the body's immune system, helping to fight infections and other diseases.