How do we think, feel, remember, or move? It all depends on transmission of chemical signals in the brain, carried and released by molecular containers called vesicles. In a new study, researchers ...

Understanding the Context

Vesicles form naturally during the processes of secretion (exocytosis), uptake (endocytosis), and the transport of materials within the plasma membrane. Alternatively, they may be prepared artificially, in which case they are called liposomes (not to be confused with lysosomes). Find out how vesicles function in the body and what the five main types of vesicle are. We also discuss how vesicles interact with other cells and pathogens.

Key Insights

Vesicles are microscopic, bubble-like sacs found within cells, serving as fundamental components of cellular organization. These tiny compartments are enclosed by a membrane, separating their internal contents from the rest of the cell’s fluid environment. Since vesicles are composed of a lipid bilayer, they can have a completely self-contained environment that is different from the inside of the cell. Thus, vesicles also function in metabolism and enzyme storage. Vesicles are small, membrane-bound sacs functioning as the cell’s internal logistics and delivery system.

Final Thoughts

They are enclosed by a lipid bilayer, similar to the cell’s outer membrane, which allows them to maintain an internal environment distinct from the rest of the cell. Because vesicles are made of phospholipids, they can break off of and fuse with other membraneous material. This allows them to serve as small transport containers, moving substances around the cell and to the cell membrane. Vesicles are small, membrane-bound sacs found inside cells that store and transport various molecules and substances, such as hormones, neurotransmitters, and proteins.