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Recent Progress in Extracellular Vesicle-Based Carriers for Targeted Drug Delivery in Cancer Therapy
Yaqin Tang1,2, Xingyou Liu1, Meng Sun1
1Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China.
Abstract:
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small, membrane-based vesicles released by cells that play a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes. They act as vehicles for transporting a variety of endogenous cargo molecules, enabling intercellular communication. Due to their natural properties, EVs have emerged as a promising "cell-free therapy" strategy for treating various diseases, including cancer. They serve as excellent carriers for different therapeutics, including nucleic acids, proteins, small molecules, and other nanomaterials. Modifying or engineering EVs can improve the efficacy, targeting, specificity, and biocompatibility of EV-based therapeutics for cancer therapy. In this review, we comprehensively outline the biogenesis, isolation, and methodologies of EVs, as well as their biological functions. We then focus on specific applications of EVs as drug carriers in cancer therapy by citing prominent recent studies. Additionally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges for using EVs as pharmaceutical drug delivery vehicles. Ultimately, we aim to provide theoretical and technical support for the development of EV-based carriers for cancer treatment.
Insights
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived nanoparticles with therapeutic potential. Engineering EVs enhances their efficacy as drug delivery vehicles for cancer treatment, offering promising cell-free therapy strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanomedicine
- Oncology
Background:
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial for intercellular communication, transporting molecules between cells.
- Their natural properties make them promising candidates for cell-free therapeutic applications, particularly in oncology.
- EVs can carry diverse therapeutic payloads, including nucleic acids, proteins, and small molecules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biogenesis, isolation, and functions of extracellular vesicles.
- To highlight the application of engineered EVs as drug carriers in cancer therapy.
- To discuss the potential and challenges of EVs in pharmaceutical drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of recent studies on EV biogenesis, isolation, and applications.
- Analysis of EV engineering strategies to enhance therapeutic efficacy and targeting.
- Evaluation of current research on EV-based drug delivery systems for cancer.
Main Results:
- EVs are versatile natural nanocarriers with significant potential in cancer therapy.
- Engineering EVs can optimize their targeting, specificity, and biocompatibility for drug delivery.
- Recent studies demonstrate promising results for EV-based therapeutics in preclinical cancer models.
Conclusions:
- Extracellular vesicles represent a viable platform for developing advanced cancer therapeutics.
- Further research and development are needed to overcome challenges in clinical translation.
- EV-based drug delivery holds significant promise for future cancer treatment strategies.
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