Investigating the role of extracellular vesicles in exercise, health, and aging

When we exercise our body undergoes adaptations that promote health benefits. Well known adaptations include improved muscle strength, but currently we do not understand how other organs in the body are also improved through exercise. This thesis investigated how cells in our body can release small vesicles during exercise that can promote health benefits across the body. The small vesicles are called 'extracellular vesicles' and this research has identified that they contain proteins that can prevent aging and also enhance our immune system. Together, this dissertation has identified new molecular pathways in which exercise improves our wellbeing.