Role of miRNAs in exosomes in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis

As one class of tiny vesicles with a particle size of 30～150 nm secreted during cell exocytosis, exosomes are composed of an external lipid bilayer and an internal encapsulated biomolecule of DNA, RNA, lipids and proteins derived from cells. In recent years, some studies have confirmed that miRNAs in exosomes are correlated closely with renal fibrosis（RF） and may serve as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review focused upon the introductions of exosomes and miRNAs, the concepts of RF and chronic kidney disease（CKD） and their interconnections, the major regulatory mechanisms of RF, the mechanism of miRNAs in exosomes from different sources regulating RF and the role of miRNAs in exosomes in RF, aiming to provide references for managing RF and delaying CKD.