Extracellular vesicles as delivery systems at nano-/micro-scale.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Nanomedicine
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as potent nano-/micro-size carriers for drug delivery and bioimaging.
• Their unique physicochemical, biological, and mechanical properties offer advantages in pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and biodistribution for theranostic cargoes.
• Significant research efforts have elucidated the multifaceted characteristics of EVs, highlighting their potential in advanced therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze the advantages and disadvantages of using extracellular vesicles (EVs) as a drug delivery platform.
• To compare rationally designed EVs, particularly exosomes, with existing engineered nanoparticle delivery systems like di-block co-polymers.
• To evaluate and compare various pharmaceutical loading techniques for EVs to facilitate clinical translation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and comparative analysis of existing research on extracellular vesicles (EVs).
• Evaluation of physicochemical, biological, and mechanical properties of EVs in the context of drug delivery.
• Comparative assessment of engineered nanoparticles and EVs (exosomes) for therapeutic cargo delivery.
• Analysis of different methods for loading pharmaceuticals into EVs.

Main Results:

• EVs possess unique properties that enhance drug delivery, including favorable pharmacokinetics and biodistribution.
• Engineered nanoparticles offer alternatives, but rationally designed EVs present distinct advantages for specific theranostic missions.
• Various pharmaceutical loading strategies exist, each with specific efficiencies and implications for clinical applicability.

Conclusions:

• Extracellular vesicles (EVs) represent a promising, versatile platform for drug delivery and bioimaging, offering unique biological advantages.
• Rational design and optimized loading strategies are crucial for developing clinically viable EV-based nanocarriers.
• Further research into EV engineering and pharmaceutical loading is essential to fully realize their therapeutic potential.