Extracellular Vesicles as a Potential Tool in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biomedical Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Cancer is a major global health challenge, driving the search for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
• Extracellular vesicles (EVs), released by cells, are key intercellular communicators carrying biomolecules like nucleic acids and proteins.
• Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) are emerging as scalable and safe nanocarriers for biomedical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications of EVs in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
• To highlight the role of EVs as biomarkers, drug-delivery systems, and therapeutic agents.
• To discuss challenges and future directions for EV clinical translation in oncology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent advances in EV research for oncology.
• Analysis of EV roles in intercellular communication, cancer biomarkers, and drug delivery.
• Exploration of plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) as potential nanocarriers.

Main Results:

• EVs are valuable for liquid biopsy and minimally invasive cancer diagnosis due to their presence in biofluids.
• EVs serve as promising therapeutic platforms due to biocompatibility, stability, and cargo delivery capabilities.
• PDEVs offer a scalable and potentially safe alternative for nanocarrier applications.

Conclusions:

• EVs represent a significant advancement in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
• Further research into EV isolation, characterization, and clinical translation is crucial for realizing their full potential in oncology.
• The unique properties of EVs, including PDEVs, position them as versatile tools for future cancer management.