The role of extracellular vesicles of seminal plasma in stabilizing sperm functions

Extracellular vesicles are membrane structures of cellular origin secreted by various types of cells and glands into both external and internal environments. These vesicles play an important role in intercellular communication and many health- and disease-related processes. Although extracellular vesicles have been isolated from nearly all specialized tissues of the male reproductive tract, their composition and function are best characterized in the epididymis and seminal fluid. Extracellular vesicles enhance fertility by promoting cell sperm development and function as well as influencing cellular physiology in the female reproductive tract. This review synthesizes current evidence on the role of extracellular vesicles in stabilizing sperm function and highlights their significance as key regulators of male fertility. Keywords: seminal plasma, extracellular vesicles, exosomes, microvesicles, epididymosomes, intercellular communication, assisted reproductive technologies, sperm