Extracellular vesicles from tumor-associated macrophages: implications for tumor progression and emerging therapeutic...

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from tumor cells have been extensively explored over the past decades, as they represent a powerful means of communication that promotes tumor progression, including the formation of pre-metastatic niches and the consequent facilitation of successful metastatic dissemination. However, macrophages comprise a substantial population of non-tumoral cells within the tumor microenvironment and can either facilitate or inhibit tumor progression through the messages carried by their EVs. In this paper, we reviewed the literature on macrophage-derived EVs and their role in modulating tumor behavior, including development, metastasis, immune evasion, and chemoresistance. We begin by outlining the main categories of EVs and the subtypes of macrophage polarization, followed by a discussion of key aspects of macrophage-derived EVs across various tumor types. Finally, we examine emerging therapeutic strategies that utilize these EVs as potential tools in anticancer therapy.