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Comprehensive Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Safety of Placenta-Targeted Drug Delivery Using Three Complementary Methods
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Exosome precision engineering: A comprehensive method for targeted gene and drug delivery
Hailah M Almohaimeed1, Hadeel Abdulrahman Waggas2, Osama Mohammed Abdulaziz Altowaijri2
1Department of Basic Science, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O.Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia.
Pathology, Research and Practice
|January 31, 2026
Summary
Engineered exosomes offer promising therapeutic potential for drug and gene delivery due to their natural properties. Advances in exosome engineering enhance targeting and loading, enabling novel treatments for diseases like cancer.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology and Nanomedicine
- Cellular Biology and Therapeutics
Background:
- Exosomes are natural cell-derived vesicles mediating intercellular communication via cargo transport (proteins, lipids, nucleic acids).
- Their inherent biocompatibility, stability, and ability to cross biological barriers make them attractive for drug and gene delivery applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in engineered exosome technology for therapeutic applications.
- To highlight novel strategies for exosome surface modification and cargo loading.
- To discuss the potential of engineered exosomes in precision medicine and disease treatment.
Main Methods:
- Surface engineering of exosomes using ligands, antibodies, or peptides for targeted delivery.
- Development of advanced loading techniques, including remote and stimuli-responsive systems.
- Application of genetically engineered exosomes for delivering CRISPR/Cas9 for therapeutic gene editing.
Main Results:
- Engineered exosomes demonstrate enhanced targeting accuracy and efficient delivery of nucleic acids and small molecules.
- Genetically modified exosomes show potential for modulating immune responses and developing innovative cancer therapies.
- Current research expands exosome applicability in biological therapy and precision medicine.
Conclusions:
- Engineered exosomes represent versatile platforms with significant therapeutic potential.
- Challenges remain in scalable production, immunogenicity, and regulatory approval.
- Continued research is crucial to overcome these hurdles and fully realize the clinical benefits of engineered exosomes.
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