Engineering exosomes and exosome-like nanovesicles for improving tissue targeting and retention

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Nanomedicine
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Exosomes are natural nanoparticles involved in intercellular communication, playing roles in various physiological and pathological processes.
• These vesicles hold potential for diagnosing and treating diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions.
• Current therapeutic uses of exosomes face challenges including limited tissue targeting and brief in vivo residence times.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in engineering exosomes for improved tissue targeting.
• To describe engineered exosome-like nanovesicles and their preclinical applications.
• To highlight strategies for extending exosome retention time in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on exosome engineering techniques.
• Analysis of engineered exosome-like nanovesicles and their therapeutic potential.
• Summary of strategies to enhance exosome biodistribution and longevity.

Main Results:

• Exosome engineering offers solutions to enhance tissue targeting and prolong in vivo circulation.
• Various engineered exosome-like nanovesicles have demonstrated preclinical efficacy.
• Novel strategies are emerging to improve the therapeutic performance of exosomes.

Conclusions:

• Exosome engineering is crucial for developing effective nanomedicines.
• Engineered exosomes represent a promising platform for targeted drug delivery and disease treatment.
• Further research into exosome modification will enhance their clinical translation.