Bone-derived exosomes

•The bone-derived exosomes carry various molecules from their donor cells.•The bone-derived exosomes affect the recipient cells within bone microenvironment.•The bone-derived exosomes may be used as targeted delivery systems for molecular therapy.

Exosomes are endosomal-derived vesicles secreted by a wide range of cell types for transporting functional proteins, microRNAs (miRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNA) from their parental cells to affect the recipient cells. Emerging evidence indicates that exosomes also play an important role in the intercellular communication among the bone cells, that is, osteoblasts, osteoclasts and bone marrow stromal cells, within bone microenvironment. Here, we reviewed the local and systemic effects of bone-derived exosomes, and discussed the potential of exosomes as targeted delivery systems for molecular therapy in skeletal disorders.