Extracellular vesicles are cell-derived membrane particles ranging from 30 to 
5,000 nm in size, including exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies. They 
are released under physiological conditions, but also upon cellular activation, 
senescence, and apoptosis. They play an important role in intercellular 
communication. Their release may also maintain cellular integrity by ridding the 
cell of damaging substances. This review describes the biogenesis, uptake, and 
detection of extracellular vesicles in addition to the impact that they have on 
recipient cells, focusing on mechanisms important in the pathophysiology of 
kidney diseases, such as thrombosis, angiogenesis, tissue regeneration, immune 
modulation, and inflammation. In kidney diseases, extracellular vesicles may be 
utilized as biomarkers, as they are detected in both blood and urine. 
Furthermore, they may contribute to the pathophysiology of renal disease while 
also having beneficial effects associated with tissue repair. Because of their 
role in the promotion of thrombosis, inflammation, and immune-mediated disease, 
they could be the target of drug therapy, whereas their favorable effects could 
be utilized therapeutically in acute and chronic kidney injury.