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Emerging Frontiers in Neuro-Oncology: Insights into Extracellular Vesicle-Driven Tumor Mechanisms and Nanotherapeutic
Tommaso Colangelo1,2, Anna Alessia Saponaro1,2, Gianluigi Mazzoccoli3
1C.R.E.A.T.E.-Center for Research and Innovation in Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
Abstract:
Brain tumors encompass a heterogeneous group of neoplasms, including primary and secondary metastatic lesions, with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) representing the most aggressive primary malignancy. Despite advancements in surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, the prognosis for GBM remains poor due to its infiltrative nature, tumor heterogeneity and resistance mechanisms. Emerging diagnostic tools, such as liquid biopsies, and therapeutic strategies leveraging extracellular vesicles (EVs) are reshaping the field of neuro-oncology. EVs, lipid bilayer-enclosed particles secreted by cells, carry oncogenic cargo such as microRNAs and molecular chaperones, influencing tumor progression, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. Recent research highlights their potential as biomarkers for early diagnosis and vehicles for targeted drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). EV-based nanotherapeutics show promise in improving treatment precision, reducing systemic toxicity, and advancing precision medicine in brain tumor management. However, challenges related to EV heterogeneity, cargo-loading efficiency, and large-scale production must be addressed to fully realize their therapeutic potential. This review explores the multifaceted roles of EVs in brain tumors, emphasizing their diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic applications.
Insights
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) show promise in diagnosing and treating brain tumors, including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Research explores their potential as biomarkers and drug delivery vehicles for improved precision medicine.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Biotechnology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with poor prognosis despite current treatments.
- Tumor infiltrative nature, heterogeneity, and resistance mechanisms limit therapeutic efficacy.
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as key players in brain tumor biology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic applications of EVs in brain tumors.
- To highlight the potential of EVs in overcoming treatment resistance and improving outcomes.
- To discuss challenges and future directions for EV-based strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in EV research for brain tumors.
- Analysis of EV cargo (microRNAs, molecular chaperones) and their roles.
- Exploration of EV applications in liquid biopsies and targeted drug delivery.
Main Results:
- EVs can serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis of brain tumors.
- EVs facilitate tumor progression, immune evasion, and therapy resistance.
- EV-based nanotherapeutics offer potential for precise drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
Conclusions:
- EVs hold significant promise for revolutionizing brain tumor diagnosis and treatment.
- Targeted drug delivery using EVs can enhance therapeutic precision and reduce toxicity.
- Further research is needed to address EV heterogeneity and production challenges for clinical translation.
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