Extracellular vesicles in tumor microenvironment modulation and clinical diagnosis

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cell Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial mediators of tumor progression and metastasis.
• Their molecular cargo influences cellular behavior and the tumor microenvironment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biogenesis, secretion, and multifaceted functions of tumor-derived EVs.
• To elucidate the role of EVs in promoting tumor metastasis, immune evasion, and angiogenesis.
• To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic potential of EVs as cancer biomarkers.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on extracellular vesicles in cancer.
• Analysis of EV cargo and their impact on cellular signaling pathways.
• Evaluation of EV interactions within the tumor microenvironment.

Main Results:

• Tumor-derived EVs promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and immune escape.
• EVs facilitate angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and nutrient supply for tumor growth.
• EVs establish pre-metastatic niches and protect circulating tumor cells.

Conclusions:

• Extracellular vesicles are key regulators of tumor progression, metastasis, and immune evasion.
• EVs hold significant potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for early cancer detection.
• Targeting EVs offers promising therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.