Advances in exosomal non-coding RNAs in cervical cancer (Review)
Xingkui Xie1, Hongwei Guan2, Meng Li3
1Department of Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China.
Abstract:
Exosomes, extracellular vesicles (30-150 nm in diameter) released upon the fusion of multivesicular bodies with the plasma membrane, are pivotal mediators of intercellular communication through their cargo transport. The present review aimed to provide further insight into the molecular mechanisms by which exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs, contribute to the development of cervical cancer (CC). There are currently no US Food and Drug Administration-approved exosome products for medical use. The present review highlights the critical role of exosomal ncRNAs in the pathogenesis of CC, including tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, angiogenesis and drug resistance, and discusses their potential as novel biomarkers for diagnosis, therapeutic targets and prognostic tools for CC. However, the long-term safety and efficacy of these ncRNAs requires further confirmation by clinical trials, which is essential before exosomes can be broadly adopted in CC. Although exosomes hold significant potential in the diagnosis, therapy and prognosis of CC, several challenges remain to be addressed before their translation into therapeutic use, including the standardization of exosome isolation and storage protocols, the optimization of drug-loading efficiency, precise control over cargo release kinetics and the completion of extensive clinical trials.
Insights
Exosomes carrying non-coding RNAs are key in cervical cancer (CC) development, influencing tumor growth and drug resistance. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm their safety and efficacy for CC diagnosis and therapy.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Exosomes are extracellular vesicles mediating intercellular communication.
- Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) within exosomes play roles in various diseases.
- Cervical cancer (CC) pathogenesis involves complex molecular mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the role of exosomal ncRNAs in cervical cancer (CC) development.
- To explore the potential of exosomal ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for CC.
- To review current challenges in translating exosome-based therapies for CC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on exosomal non-coding RNAs in cervical cancer.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying exosome-mediated intercellular communication in CC.
- Synthesis of data on diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic potential of exosomal ncRNAs.
Main Results:
- Exosomal ncRNAs (miRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs) critically influence CC initiation, progression, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance.
- These ncRNAs show promise as novel biomarkers for CC diagnosis and prognosis.
- Exosomes offer potential as therapeutic delivery vehicles for CC treatment.
Conclusions:
- Exosomal ncRNAs are significant contributors to cervical cancer pathogenesis and progression.
- Further clinical validation is required to establish the safety and efficacy of exosome-based therapies for CC.
- Standardization of isolation, storage, drug loading, and clinical trials are crucial for exosome translation in CC treatment.
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