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Recent advances in therapeutic engineered extracellular vesicles
Chenlu Yao1, Hong Zhang2, Chao Wang1
1Laboratory for Biomaterial and ImmunoEngineering, Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China. cwang@suda.edu.cn.
Surface-engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) show promise for treating diseases. This review covers engineering methods, therapeutic applications in trials, and challenges for clinical use of these engineered EVs.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanomedicine
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-secreted particles with inherent therapeutic potential.
- EVs possess natural properties for crossing biological barriers and prolonged in vivo circulation.
- Bioengineering enhances EV therapeutic efficacy and targeting capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review methods for engineering EVs.
- To summarize the application of engineered EVs in preclinical and clinical studies.
- To discuss challenges and opportunities for clinical translation of surface-engineered EVs.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on EV engineering techniques.
- Analysis of preclinical and clinical trial data for engineered EVs.
- Discussion of current research trends and future prospects.
Main Results:
- Various methods exist for modifying EV surfaces to improve therapeutic outcomes.
- Engineered EVs are being investigated for treating tumors, autoimmune diseases, and infections.
- Ongoing research and clinical trials demonstrate the potential of engineered EVs.
Conclusions:
- Surface-engineered EVs offer a promising platform for diverse therapeutic applications.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges in the clinical translation of engineered EVs.
- Optimizing engineering strategies is key to realizing the full therapeutic potential of EVs.
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