Plant-derived nanovesicles: Further exploration of biomedical function and application potential

Screening Isodon rubescens-Derived Vesicles Harvested at Different Periods as Carriers for the Treatment of Colitis-Associated Cancer

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles are of great significance in practical applications due to their availability, low immunogenicity, and effective carrier performance. Isodon rubescens-derived vesicles (IRDVs) not only have the capability for drug-carrying targeted therapy but also exhibit certain anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects as part of traditional Chinese medicine. The harvest time is closely related to the quality of its medicinal ingredients; however, whether there are differences in the IRDVs harvested at different times has yet to be explored. Herein, we analyzed the morphology and chemical composition of IRDVs collected at different time points and identified six-month-harvested IRDVs as the most suitable delivery vector. To further enhance their therapeutic potential, we modified the IRDVs with deoxycholic acid to facilitate the oral delivery of the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (DOX). This novel nanotherapy, termed DOX-IRDVs@DA, was developed as an oral targeted treatment for colitis-associated cancer (CAC). The results demonstrated that DOX-IRDVs@DA effectively delivered DOX to colon tumor 26 (CT26) cells, induced cancer cell apoptosis by modulating apoptosis-related proteins, and inhibited the proliferation of CT26 cells. In vivo studies in a mouse model of CAC revealed that DOX-IRDVs@DA achieved superior targeted therapeutic effects, reducing the number of colonic nodules, restoring the structural integrity of the colon, and causing minimal systemic toxicity.

Fucoidan-modified antibiotic-free nanovesicles: A multidimensional approach to eradicate intracellular and extracellular Helicobacter pylori and restore gastrointestinal homeostasis

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection affects nearly half of the global population, with biofilm formation and immune evasion contributing to chronic and recurrent infections, posing significant public health challenges. The robust immune evasion mechanisms and gene mutations of H. pylori not only result in a progressive decrease in clinical treatment efficacy but also increase bacterial resistance. Furthermore, antibiotic regimens have been shown to disrupt the diversity and richness of the gut microbiota. Given the challenges of eradicating H. pylori and adverse effects of antibiotics on host microbiota, this study introduces an antibiotic-free alternative strategy: fucoidan-modified kaempferol-loaded glycyrrhizic acid lipid nanovesicles (Fu-GaLip@KP). Kaempferol, supported by the nanovesicles, penetrates the mucus barrier, disperses biofilms, and eradicates bacteria. Additionally, glycyrrhetinic acid, a critical stabilizer for nanovesicles, restores lysosomal acidification and enhances the host's ability to eliminate intracellular bacteria. Notably, nanovesicles also reduce oxidative free radicals and inflammatory factor secretion, exhibiting superior efficacy in repairing gastric mucosal damage and mitigating inflammation. In vivo studies have demonstrated that Fu-GaLip@KP achieves anti-H. pylori efficacy comparable to triple therapy, while simultaneously restoring gut microbiota diversity and preventing dysbiosis. In summary, the antibiotic-free approach of Fu-GaLip@KP offers a comprehensive strategy for addressing H. pylori infection and related diseases.

Plant-derived nanovesicles and therapeutic application

Plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) are becoming more popular as promising therapeutic tools owing to their diversity, cost-effectiveness, and biocompatibility with very low toxicity. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the methods for isolating and characterizing PDNVs and emphasize their versatile roles in direct therapeutic applications and drug delivery systems. Their ability to effectively encapsulate and deliver large nucleic acids, proteins, and small-molecule drugs was highlighted. Moreover, advanced engineering strategies, such as surface modification and fusion with other vesicles, have been developed to enhance the therapeutic effects of PDNVs. Additionally, we describe key challenges related to this field, encouraging further research to optimize PDNVs for various clinical applications for prevention and therapeutic purposes. The distinctive properties and diverse applications of PDNVs could play a crucial role in the future of personalized medicine, fostering the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

Utility of edible plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles as a novel delivery platform for vaccine antigen delivery

Plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles (PENVs) contain various biomolecules that can be used as delivery cargoes, such as small compounds, small interfering RNAs, DNAs, and recombinant proteins. Edible PENVs are nontoxic, useful for oral administration, and easily prepared in high amounts from a variety of plants, vegetables, and fruits. In this study, we evaluated whether PENVs can be used as delivery cargoes for recombinant vaccine antigens. Thus, we isolated PENVs from grapefruits and mandarin oranges by differential centrifugation and characterized their sizes and morphologies. Our results showed lipid bilayer morphologies of grapefruit-derived nanovesicles (GNVs) with the average size of 46 ± 8.5 nm and mandarin orange-derived NVs (MNVs) with the average size of 227 ± 6.4 nm. However, exposure to GNVs and MNVs did not cause cytotoxicity in Vero monkey kidneys or in MDCK canine kidney cells. To evaluate their utility as carriers of mRNA or recombinant proteins, GNVs and MNVs were loaded with GFP mRNA, Alexa Fluor 647-labeled heat shock protein 70 (AF-HSP70), or recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Our results showed that mRNA-GFP, human HSP70 protein, and HBsAg were efficiently loaded into both GNVs and MNVs. Interestingly, the oral administration of HBsAg-loaded GNVs to mice resulted in significantly higher levels of serum IgG than in the experimental control group (HBsAg without NVs). Therefore, our results report, for the first time, that edible PENVs loaded with HBsAg administered to mice via oral vaccination were effective in vaccine development.

Exosome-Based Vaccines: Pioneering New Frontiers in Combating Infectious Diseases and Cancer

Exosomes, small extracellular vesicles with lipid bilayer membranes, play a crucial role in cellular communication and can transfer diverse biological cargo, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, from donor to recipient cells. Exosomes possess diverse immunological properties, such as antigen delivery and immune activation, along with excellent drug delivery capabilities, making them promising candidates for vaccine development. For different diseases, exosome-based vaccines can be designed as therapeutic or prophylactic vaccines by leveraging cellular immunity or humoral immunity. With the emergence of precision medicine, exosome-based personalized vaccines demonstrate exceptional therapeutic potential. This review systematically introduces the sources, biogenesis mechanisms, and components of exosomes and describes their regulatory roles in the immune system. Subsequently, the preparation, administration, and personalized therapy of exosome-based vaccines are discussed. Finally, the applications and clinical trials of exosome-based vaccines in the fields of anti-infection and anti-tumor therapies are particularly highlighted, with an analysis of the potential challenges in future vaccine development.

Advances in Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicle Extraction Methods and Pharmacological Effects

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are those with a double-membrane structure that contains proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and other biologically active substances that play an important role in cell-cell and cell-environment communication. They have also become an important mechanism for exchanging biologically active substances for cellular molecules. As many studies on EVs have been conducted, plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) have also started attracting attention. The biological activity and stability of PDEVs are closely related to the extraction and separation methods, and choosing a separation method that meets the requirements of PDEVs is important. The extraction methods of PDEVs include ultracentrifugation, ultrafiltration, size-exclusion chromatography, etc. In recent years, it has been found through research that PDEVs possess biological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-infective properties, and that they show unique advantages as therapeutic agents and drug carriers. Therefore, we have collected the scientific literature related to EVs derived from more than a dozen fruits and vegetables, and summarized and analyzed their extraction, separation, and roles in disease treatment, aiming to provide reference and inspiration for the in-depth study of the efficacy of new drugs.

Cryoshocked Adipocytes Mediated Dual-Modal Strategy Combining Photodynamic Therapy and Triptolide Palmitate for Pulmonary Metastatic Melanoma Treatment

Pulmonary metastasis represents one of the most prevalent forms of metastasis in advanced melanoma, with mortality rates reaching 70%. Current treatments including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy frequently exhibit limited efficacy or present high costs. To address these clinical needs, this study presents a biomimetic drug delivery system (Ce6-pTP-CsA) utilizing cryoshocked adipocytes (CsA) encapsulating the prodrug triptolide palmitate (pTP) and the photosensitizer Ce6, exploiting the characteristic of tumor cells to recruit and lipolyze adipocytes for energy. CsA substantially enhances the drug-loading capacity of adipocytes, with its particle size characteristics enabling targeted delivery of pTP to the lungs. The combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and pTP activates the caspase cascade, promoting apoptosis in tumor cells. Notably, the cleavage of disulfide bonds in pTP depletes glutathione (GSH), reducing its scavenging effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhancing the efficacy of PDT. Results demonstrate that Ce6-pTP-CsA effectively inhibits the proliferation and invasion of pulmonary metastatic melanoma cells in vitro and induces apoptosis, while significantly suppressing lung metastasis of SCID mice models in vivo. In conclusion, this novel biomimetic drug delivery system based on adipocytes provides a promising strategy for targeted therapy in pulmonary metastatic melanoma.

Blueberry-derived exosome like nanovesicles carry RNA cargo into HIEC-6 cells and down-regulate LPS-induced inflammatory gene expression: A proof-of-concept study

Exosome-like nanovesicles (ELNs) of food origin have received great attention in the last decade, due to the hypothesis that they contain bioactive molecules. ELNs purified from edible species have been shown to be protective and are able to regulate intestinal homeostasis. Despite ELNs being potential rising stars in modern healthy diets and biomedical applications, further research is needed to address underlying knowledge gaps, especially related to the specific molecular mechanism through which they exert their action. Here, we investigate the cellular uptake of blueberry-derived ELNs (B-ELNs) using a human stabilized intestinal cell line (HIEC-6) and assess the ability of B-ELNs to modulate the expression of inflammatory genes in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our findings show that B-ELNs are internalized by HIEC-6 cells and transport labeled RNA cargo into them. Pretreatment with B-ELNs reduces LPS-induced ROS generation and cell viability loss, while modulating the expression of 28 inflammatory genes compared to control. Pathway analysis demonstrates their ability to suppress inflammatory responses triggered by LPS. In conclusion, our data indicate that B-ELNs are up taken by HIEC-6 cells and can modulate inflammatory responses after LPS stimulation, suggesting a therapeutic potential. This study demonstrates the role of B-ELNs in regulating crucial biological processes, like anti-inflammatory responses, which could support intestinal health.

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles as nanocarriers for combination therapy enhancing paclitaxel-based regimens in breast cancer

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents unique challenges owing to its aggressiveness and limited treatment options. Paclitaxel-based chemotherapy is widely used in breast cancer treatment. However, its efficacy is often limited by toxicity, multidrug resistance, and lack of targeted delivery. In response to these challenges, recent studies have focused on the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs), particularly plant-derived EVs, as innovative drug delivery systems capable of enhancing therapeutic outcomes and reducing adverse effects. Plant-derived EVs offer significant advantages owing to their biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and scalability. They provide a natural platform for delivering chemotherapeutics such as paclitaxel and doxorubicin directly to tumor cells. This review explores the therapeutic potential of plant-derived EVs in breast cancer treatment, focusing on TNBC by examining their ability to improve drug stability, bioavailability, and selective targeting of cancer cells. Key studies on EVs derived from plants such as grapefruit, ginger, and tea leaves have demonstrated their capacity to deliver chemotherapeutic agents effectively while mitigating common side effects associated with conventional delivery methods. Although the use of plantderived EVs is still in early stages of research, findings suggest that that these nanocarriers can serve as transformative tools in oncology, providing a versatile and efficient platform for precise cancer treatment. This review highlights current landscape of research on plant-derived EVs, their application in breast cancer therapy, and future directions required to translate these findings into clinical practice. [BMB Reports 2025; 58(2): 53-63].

Solanum lycopersicum derived exosome-like nanovesicles alleviate restenosis after vascular injury through the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway

Despite the significant alleviation of clinical cardiovascular diseases through appropriate interventional treatments, the recurrence of vascular restenosis necessitating reoperation remains a substantial challenge impacting patient prognosis. Plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles (PELNs) are integral to interspecies cellular communication, with their functions and potential applications garnering significant attention from the research community. This study extracted Solanum lycopersicum-derived exosome-like nanovesicles (SL-ELNs) and demonstrated their inhibition of PDGF-BB-induced proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Mechanistically, miRNA164a/b-5p within the SL-ELNs reduced the expression of Keap1 mRNA, thereby increasing nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and enhancing the expression of antioxidant genes to alleviate oxidative stress. In a mouse carotid artery injury model, it was further confirmed that miRNA164a/b-5p within the SL-ELNs could inhibit neointimal hyperplasia. These results suggest that SL-ELNs inhibit VSMCs proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transformation, and they might be potential therapeutic agents for the prevention or treatment of restenosis.

Leveraging plant-derived nanovesicles for advanced nucleic acid-based gene therapy

Gene therapy has evolved into a pivotal approach for treating genetic disorders, extending beyond traditional methods of directly repairing or replacing defective genes. Recent advancements in nucleic acid-based therapies-including mRNA, miRNA, siRNA, and DNA treatments have expanded the scope of gene therapy to include strategies that modulate protein expression and deliver functional genetic material without altering the genetic sequence itself. This review focuses on the innovative use of plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) as a promising delivery system for these nucleic acids. PDNVs not only enhance the stability and bioavailability of therapeutic nucleic acids but also improve their specificity and efficacy in targeted gene therapy applications. They have shown potential in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer and inflammatory conditions. By examining the unique properties of PDNVs and their role in overcoming the limitations of conventional delivery methods, this review highlights the transformative potential of PDNV-based nucleic acid therapies in advancing the field of gene therapy.

Potential of Plant-derived Exosome-like Nanoparticles from Physalis peruviana Fruit for Human Dermal Fibroblast Regeneration and Remodeling

AIMS

This research aimed to study the potential of PDEN from P. peruviana fruits (PENC) for regenerating and remodeling HDF.

BACKGROUND

Large wounds are dangerous and require prompt and effective healing. Various efforts have been undertaken, but have been somewhat ineffective. Plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PDEN) are easily sampled, relatively cost-effective, exhibit high yields, and are nonimmunogenic.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the study was to isolate and characterize PDEN from Physalis peruviana (PENC), and determine PENC's internalization and toxicity on HDF cells, PENC's ability to regenerate HDF (proliferation and migration), and PENC ability's to remodel HDF (collagen I and MMP-1 production).

METHODS

PENC was isolated using gradual filtration and centrifugation, followed by sedimentation using PEG6000. Characterization was done using a particle size analyzer, zeta potential analyzer, TEM, and BCA assay. Internalization was done using PKH67 staining. Toxicity and proliferation assays were conducted using MTT assay; meanwhile, migration assay was carried out by employing the scratch assay. Collagen I production was performed using immunocytochemistry and MMP-1 production was conducted using ELISA.

RESULTS

MTT assay showed a PENC concentration of 2.5 until 500 μg/mL and being non-toxic to cells. PENC has been found to induce cell proliferation in 1, 3, 5, and 7 days. PENC at a concentration of 2.5, 5, and 7.5 μg/mL, also accelerated HDF migration using the scratch assay in two days. In remodeling, PENC upregulated collagen-1 expression from day 7 to 14 compared to control. MMP-1 declined from day 2 to 7 in every PENC concentration and increased on day 14. Overall, PENC at concentrations of 2.5, 5, and 7.5 μg/mL induced HDF proliferation and migration, upregulated collagen I production, and decreased MMP-1 levels.

CONCLUSION

Isolated PENC was 190-220 nm in size, circular, covered with membrane, and its zeta potential was -6.7 mV; it could also be stored at 4°C for up to 2 weeks in aqua bidest. Protein concentration ranged between 170-1,395 μg/mL. Using PKH67, PENC could enter HDF within 6 hours. PENC was non-toxic up to a concentration of 500 μg/mL. Using MTT and scratch assay, PENC was found to elevate HDF proliferation and migration, and reorganize actin. Using immunocytochemistry, collagen I was upregulated by PENC, whereas MMP-1 concentration was reduced.

Chinese herbal medicine-derived extracellular vesicles as novel biotherapeutic tools: present and future

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are phospholipid bilayer-enclosed biological particles that are secreted by almost all living cells including animals, plants, and microorganisms. Chinese herbal medicines (CHM) have a long history of using plant-based remedies to treat and prevent human diseases. Chinese herbal medicine-derived extracellular vesicle (CHMEV) generic term refers to nanoscale membrane structures isolated from medicinal plants such as ginseng, ginger, and Panax notoginseng. In recent years, CHMEVs have garnered substantial attention as a novel class of functional components due to their high bioavailability, safety, easy accessibility, and diverse therapeutic effects, indicating their great potential for development as a new dosage form of CHM. Research on CHMEVs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has become a prominent area of interest, opening new avenues for further exploration into the therapeutic effects and functional mechanisms of CHM. Nonetheless, as an emerging field, there is much unknown about these vesicles, and current research remains inconsistent. The review comprehensively summarizes the biogenesis, isolation methods, and physical, and biochemical characterizations of CHMEVs. Additionally, we highlight their biomedical applications as therapeutic agents and drug delivery carriers, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, regenerative, and antiaging activities. Finally, we propose current challenges and future perspectives. By summarizing the existing literature, we aim to offer valuable clues and inspiration for future CHMEV research, thereby facilitating research standardization of CHMEVs in the treatment of human diseases and drug discovery.

Interkingdom Communication via Extracellular Vesicles: Unraveling Plant and Pathogen Interactions and Its Potential for Next-Generation Crop Protection

Recent advancements in the field of plant-pathogen interactions have spotlighted the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as pivotal mediators of cross-kingdom communication, offering new vistas for enhancing crop protection strategies. EVs are instrumental in the transport of small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) and other bioactive molecules across species boundaries, thus playing a critical role in the molecular warfare between plants and pathogens. This review elucidates the sophisticated mechanisms by which plants utilize EVs to dispatch sRNAs that silence pathogenic genes, fortifying defenses against microbial threats. Highlighting both eukaryotic and prokaryotic systems, this review delves into the biogenesis, isolation, and functional roles of EVs, illustrating their importance not only in fundamental biological processes but also in potential therapeutic applications. Recent studies have illuminated the significant role of EVs in facilitating communication between plants and pathogens, highlighting their potential in host-defense mechanisms. However, despite these advancements, challenges remain in the efficient isolation and characterization of plant-derived EVs. Overcoming these challenges is critical for fully harnessing their potential in developing next-generation crop protection strategies. This review proposes innovative strategies for utilizing RNA-based interventions delivered via EVs to bolster plant resilience against diseases. By integrating the latest scientific findings with practical applications in agriculture, this review aims to enhance the connection between fundamental plant biology and the development of innovative crop management technologies.

Targeted Elimination of the Oral Pathogen to Overcome Chemoresistance of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Biologically Derived Nanotherapeutics

Local oral microbiota are closely related to the tumorigenesis and therapeutic response of oral cancer. In this study, we have validated that oral commensal Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) is highly responsible for chemoresistance and contributes to the poor therapeutic outcome of traditional chemotherapy. Accordingly, the biologically derived nanovesicles from ginger (GDNVs) with excellent P. gingivalis elimination ability are explored to transport the clinically used drug paclitaxel (PTX) for potentiating the therapeutic efficiency. Taking advantage of active targeting and inhibition abilities of GDNVs against P. gingivalis, the PTX-loaded GDNVs nanosystem (P-GDNVs) can enrich in the P. gingivalis-colonized tumor tissues and effectively inhibit the growth of P. gingivalis for downregulating the IL-6/pSTAT3/P-gp pathway, thereby reducing the efflux of intracellular drugs to overcome chemoresistance. By evaluating both P. gingivalis-infected tumor cells and P. gingivalis-infiltrated tumor-bearing mice, P-GDNVs show a much enhanced tumor cell killing effect, as compared with free PTX. This naturally occurring nanotherapeutic system represents an effective bioactive material for targeted elimination of host microbiota to boost therapeutic response, showing great promise to combat commensal microbiota-rich tumors.

Plant-Derived Exosome-Like Nanovesicles in Chronic Wound Healing

The incidence of chronic wounds is steadily increasing each year, yet conventional treatments for chronic wounds yield unsatisfactory results. The delayed healing of chronic wounds significantly affects patient quality of life, placing a heavy burden on patients, their families, and the healthcare system. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find new treatment methods for chronic wounds. Plant-derived exosome-like nanovesicles (PELNs) may be able to accelerate chronic wound healing. PELNs possess advantages such as good accessibility (due in part to high isolation yields), low immunogenicity, and good stability. Currently, there are limited reports regarding the role of PELNs in chronic wound healing and their associated mechanisms, highlighting their novelty and the necessity for further research. This review aims to provide an overview of PELNs, discussing isolation methods, composition, and their mechanisms of action in chronic wound healing. Finally, we summarize future opportunities and challenges related to the use of PELNs for the treatment of chronic wounds, and offer some new insights and solutions.

Therapeutic effects of OXY- ExoAloe in diabetic wound injury

Delayed wound healing are common complications for diabetic patients. In light of chronic hypoxia's delay in wound healing, it is hypothesized that providing a better oxygen environment at the wound site will promote diabetic wound healing. OXY-ExoAloe is an innovative and effective therapy prepared from exosome-like vesicles of aloe vera gel, ginger juice and neem fruit sap. A combination of three herbal, oxygen-delivering and medicinally valued plants was standardized to determine if the combination had the desired effect. Interestingly, when we used OXY-ExoAloe at a particular ratio on a diabetic wound, the herbal therapy speeded up wound healing by reducing swelling, and the severity of the wound. Further, our data suggests that OXY-ExoAloe promoted wound healing by increasing wound oxygenation, reducing inflammation, cytokine production, and matrix remodeling. It is also safe and effective, with no reported side effects.

Applications of plant-derived extracellular vesicles in medicine

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising therapeutic agents owing to their natural abundance, accessibility, and unique biological properties. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the therapeutic potential of plant-derived EVs and emphasizes their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tumor-inhibitory effects. Here, we discussed the advancements in isolation and purification techniques, such as ultracentrifugation and size-exclusion chromatography, which are critical for maintaining the functional integrity of these nanovesicles. Next, we investigated the diverse administration routes of EVs and carefully weighed their respective advantages and challenges related to bioavailability and patient compliance. Moreover, we elucidated the multifaceted mechanisms of action of plant-derived EVs, including their roles in anti-inflammation, antioxidation, antitumor activity, and modulation of gut microbiota. We also discussed the impact of EVs on specific diseases such as cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, highlighting the importance of addressing current challenges related to production scalability, regulatory compliance, and immunogenicity. Finally, we proposed future research directions for optimizing EV extraction and developing targeted delivery systems. Through these efforts, we envision the seamless integration of plant-derived EVs into mainstream medicine, offering safe and potent therapeutic alternatives across various medical disciplines.

Liver cirrhosis: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic interventions

Liver cirrhosis is the end-stage of chronic liver disease, characterized by inflammation, necrosis, advanced fibrosis, and regenerative nodule formation. Long-term inflammation can cause continuous damage to liver tissues and hepatocytes, along with increased vascular tone and portal hypertension. Among them, fibrosis is the necessary stage and essential feature of liver cirrhosis, and effective antifibrosis strategies are commonly considered the key to treating liver cirrhosis. Although different therapeutic strategies aimed at reversing or preventing fibrosis have been developed, the effects have not be more satisfactory. In this review, we discussed abnormal changes in the liver microenvironment that contribute to the progression of liver cirrhosis and highlighted the importance of recent therapeutic strategies, including lifestyle improvement, small molecular agents, traditional Chinese medicine, stem cells, extracellular vesicles, and gut remediation, that regulate liver fibrosis and liver cirrhosis. Meanwhile, therapeutic strategies for nanoparticles are discussed, as are their possible underlying broad application and prospects for ameliorating liver cirrhosis. Finally, we also reviewed the major challenges and opportunities of nanomedicine‒biological environment interactions. We hope this review will provide insights into the pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms of liver cirrhosis, thus facilitating new methods, drug discovery, and better treatment of liver cirrhosis.

Scalable Purification, Storage, and Release of Plant-Derived Nanovesicles for Local Therapy Using Nanostructured All-Cellulose Composite Membranes

Plant-derived nanovesicles such as bilberries nanovesicles (BNVs) show immense promise as next-generation biotherapeutics and functional food ingredients; however, their isolation, purification, and storage on a large scale remain a challenge. In this study, biocompatible and nanostructured composite all-cellulose membranes are introduced as a scalable and straightforward approach to the isolation of BNV. The membranes consisting of a cellulose acetate matrix infused with anionic or cationic nanocelluloses promoted selective capture of BNVs through electrostatic and size-exclusion-mediated depth filtration. Furthermore, the surface of the composite membrane acted as a storage matrix for BNVs, ensuring their prolonged stability at 4 °C. The BNVs stored in the membrane could be promptly released through elution assisted by low-pressure vacuum filtration or diffusion in liquid media. The morphology, bioactivity, and stability of the extracted BNVs were preserved, and the release rate of BNVs in different cell cultures could be regulated, facilitating their use for local therapy. Consequently, this approach paves the way for the scalable production, purification, and storage of nanovesicles and advances their use in biotherapeutics and functional foods.

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles as a promising anti-tumor approach: A comprehensive assessment of effectiveness, safety, and mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEs) are expected to be a compelling alternative for cancer treatment due to their low cytotoxicity, low immunogenicity, high yield, and potential anti-tumor efficacy. Despite the significant advantages of PDEs, the reliable evidence for PDEs as promising anti-tumor approach remains unsystematic and insufficient. Some challenges remain for the clinical application and large-scale industrial production of PDEs.

PURPOSE

Through systematic evaluation and meta-analysis, the objective was to provide scientific, systematic and reliable preclinical evidence to support the clinical use of PDEs in cancer therapy.

METHODS

The search for relevant literature, conducted up to March 2024, encompassed various databases including Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and the China Science and Technology Journal Database. The SYRCLE´s risk of bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality of the animal studies. For overall effect analysis and subgroup analysis, RevMan 5.4 and Stata 12.0 were utilized.

RESULTS

The analysis incorporated a total of 38 articles, comprising 29 in vivo studies and 9 in vitro studies. Meta-analysis indicated that PDEs significantly reduced cancer cell activity and induced apoptosis, reduced tumor volume and tumor weight when used as therapeutic agents, as well as exhibited synergistic anti-cancer via combination therapy. Additionally, PDEs-drugs exerted stronger inhibition of tumor volume compared to the free drug or commercial liposome-drugs. Their therapeutic effects were closely related to regulating tumor cell biological behavior and remodeling the tumor microenvironment. The safety was associated with administration route of PDEs, oral administration was currently preferred until more in-depth studies on the safety of other methods are conducted.

CONCLUSIONS

The meta-analysis revealed that PDEs have systematic and reliable preclinical evidence in preclinical studies of cancer therapy, and their efficacy and certain safety could support the clinical application of PDEs in cancer therapy. Of course, further researches are required for large-scale industrial production to meet the needs of clinical applications.

Advances in the study of plant-derived extracellular vesicles in the skeletal muscle system

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEV) constitute nanoscale entities comprising lipids, proteins, nucleic acids and various components enveloped by the lipid bilayers of plant cells. These vesicles play a crucial role in facilitating substance and information transfer not only between plant cells but also across different species. Owing to its safety, stability, and the abundance of raw materials, this substance has found extensive utilization in recent years within research endeavors aimed at treating various diseases. This article provides an overview of the pathways and biological characteristics of PDEV, along with the prevalent methods employed for its isolation, purification, and storage. Furthermore, we comprehensively outline the therapeutic implications of diverse sources of PDEV in musculoskeletal system disorders. Additionally, we explore the utilization of PDEV as platforms for engineering drug carriers, aiming to delve deeper into the significance and potential contributions of PDEV in the realm of the musculoskeletal system.

Research status and challenges of plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles

In recent years, there has been an increasing number of related studies on exosomes. Most studies have focused on exosomes derived from mammals, confirming the important role that exosomes play in cell communication. Plants, as a natural ingredient, plant-derived exosomes have been confirmed to have similar structures and functions to mammalian-derived exosomes. Plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PELNs) are lipid bilayer membrane nanovesicles containing bioactive constituents such as miRNA, mRNA, protein, and lipids obtained from plant cells, that can participate in intercellular communication and mediate transboundary communication, have high bioavailability and low immunogenicity, are relatively safe, and have been shown to play an important role in maintaining cell homeostasis and preventing, and treating a variety of diseases. In this review, we describe the biogenesis, isolation and purification methods, structural composition, stability, safety, function of PELNs and challenges. The functions of PELNs in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor and drug delivery are mainly described, and the status of research on exosome nanoparticles of Chinese herbal medicines is outlined. Overall, we summarized the importance of PELNs and the latest research results in this field and provided a theoretical basis for the future research and clinical application of PELNs.

Plant-Derived Vesicle-like Nanoparticles: The Next-Generation Drug Delivery Nanoplatforms

A wide variety of natural bioactive compounds derived from plants have demonstrated significant clinical relevance in the treatment of various diseases such as cancer, chronic disease, and inflammation. An increasing number of studies have surfaced that give credence to the potential of plant-derived vesicle-like nanoparticles (PDVLNs) as compelling candidates for a drug delivery system (DDS). PDVLNs are cost-effective production, non-toxicity and non-immunogenicity and fascinating bi-ocompatibility. In this review, we attempt to comprehensively review and consolidate the position of PDVLNs as next-generation drug delivery nanoplatforms. We aim to give a quick glance to readers of the current developments of PDVLNs, including their biogenesis, characteristic features, composition, administration routes, advantages, and application. Further, we discuss the advantages and limitations of PDVLNs. We expect that the role of PDVLNs in drug delivery will be significantly enhanced, thus positioning them as the next generation of therapeutic modalities in the foreseeable future.

Modulation of alveolar macrophage and mitochondrial fitness by medicinal plant-derived nanovesicles to mitigate acute lung injury and viral pneumonia

Acute lung injury (ALI) is generally caused by severe respiratory infection and characterized by overexuberant inflammatory responses and inefficient pathogens-containing, the two major processes wherein alveolar macrophages (AMs) play a central role. Dysfunctional mitochondria have been linked with distorted macrophages and hence lung disorders, but few treatments are currently available to correct these defects. Plant-derive nanovesicles have gained significant attention because of their therapeutic potential, but the targeting cells and the underlying mechanism remain elusive. We herein prepared the nanovesicles from Artemisia annua, a well-known medicinal plant with multiple attributes involving anti-inflammatory, anti-infection, and metabolism-regulating properties. By applying three mice models of acute lung injury caused by bacterial endotoxin, influenza A virus (IAV) and SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus respectively, we showed that Artemisia-derived nanovesicles (ADNVs) substantially alleviated lung immunopathology and raised the survival rate of challenged mice. Macrophage depletion and adoptive transfer studies confirmed the requirement of AMs for ADNVs effects. We identified that gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) enclosed in the vesicles is a major molecular effector mediating the regulatory roles of ADNVs. Specifically, GABA acts on macrophages through GABA receptors, promoting mitochondrial gene programming and bioenergy generation, reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory signals, thereby enhancing the adaptability of AMs to inflammation resolution. Collectively, this study identifies a promising nanotherapeutics for alleviating lung pathology, and elucidates a mechanism whereby the canonical neurotransmitter modifies AMs and mitochondria to resume tissue homeostasis, which may have broader implications for treating critical pulmonary diseases such as COVID-19.

Plant-derived nanovesicles offer a promising avenue for anti-aging interventions

Over the past few years, the study of plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) has emerged as a hot topic of discussion and research in the scientific community. This remarkable interest stems from their potential role in facilitating intercellular communication and their unique ability to deliver biologically active components, including proteins, lipids, and miRNAs, to recipient cells. This fascinating ability to act as a molecular courier has opened up an entirely new dimension in our understanding of plant biology. The field of research focusing on the potential applications of PDNVs is still in its nascent stages. However, it has already started gaining traction due to the growing interest in its possible use in various branches of biotechnology and medicine. Their unique properties and versatile applications offer promising future research and development prospects in these fields. Despite the significant progress in our understanding, many unanswered questions and mysteries surround the mechanisms by which PDNVs function and their potential applications. There is a dire need for further extensive research to elucidate these mechanisms and explore the full potential of these fascinating vesicles. As the technology at our disposal advances and our understanding of PDNVs deepens, it is beyond doubt that PDNVs will continue to be a subject of intense research in anti-aging therapeutics. This comprehensive review is designed to delve into the fascinating and multifaceted world of PDNV-based research, particularly focusing on how these nanovesicles can be applied to anti-aging therapeutics.

Bioactive compounds and biological functions of medicinal plant-derived extracellular vesicles

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny lipid bilayer-enclosed membrane particles released from a variety of cell types into the surrounding environment. These EVs have massive participated in cell-to-cell communication and interspecies communication. In recent years, plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) and "exosome-like" EVs populations found in distinct plants have attracted widespread attention. Especially, research on medicinal plant-derived extracellular vesicles (MPDEVs) are increasing, which are considered a kind of promising natural compound. This review summarizes current knowledge on MPDEVs in terms of bioactive compounds, including small RNA, protein, lipid, and metabolite, have been found on the surface and/or in the lumen of MPDEVs. Moreover, both in vitro and in vivo experiments have shown that MPDEVs exert broad biomedical functions, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, modulate microbiota, etc. MPDEVs may be a better substitute than animal-derived extracellular vesicles (ADEVs) because of safety and biocompatibility in the future.

Isolation of plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PDENs) from Solanum nigrum L. berries and Their Effect on interleukin-6 expression as a potential anti-inflammatory agent

Inflammation is a temporary response of the immune system that can be treated using common anti-inflammatory drugs. However, prolonged use of these drugs increases the risk of adverse side effects. Accordingly, there is an increasing need for alternative treatments for inflammation with fewer side effects. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles secreted by most eukaryotic cells and have been studied as a candidate for cell-free therapy for inflammatory diseases due to their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. In recent years, the focus of exosome research has shifted from animal cell-derived exosomes to plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PDENs). Plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PDENs) are easier to obtain, have minimal safety concerns, and can be produced in higher quantities and lower cost than exosomes derived from animal cells. In this study, the isolation and analysis of the anti-inflammatory potential of PDENs from black nightshade berries (Solanum nigrum L.) were carried out. The results of isolation and characterization showed that PDENs had a spherical morphology, measuring around 107 nm with zeta potential of -0.6 mV, and had a protein concentration of 275.38 μg/mL. PDENs were also shown to be internalized by RAW264.7 macrophage cell line after 2 hours of incubation and had no cytotoxicity effect up to the concentration of 2.5 μg/mL. Furthermore, exposure to several doses of PDENs to the LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cell significantly decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine gene IL-6, as well as the expression of IL-6 protein up to 97,28%. GC-MS analysis showed the presence of neral, a monoterpene compound with known anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity of PDENs isolated from Solanum nigrum L. berries. Taken together, the present study was the first to isolate and characterize PDENs from Solanum nigrum L. berries. The results of this study also demonstrated the anti-inflammatory activity of PDEN by suppressing the production of IL-6 in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.

Gut microbiome as therapeutic target for diabesity management: opportunity for nanonutraceuticals and associated challenges

Diabesity is showing rising prevalence. Current treatment modalities include pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, yet associated with various drawbacks. Recently, gut microbial dysbiosis is documented as a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of diabesity. Targeting gut microbiome using modulators shows promising therapeutic strategy for diabesity management. In this line, nanonutraceuticals represent new class of gut microbial modulators. The present article explores the potential of nanonutraceuticals including nanoprobiotics, nanoprebiotics, and plant-derived nanovesicles that are fabricated on the ecofriendly food based scaffold with gut microbial modulatory potential for diabesity management. A number of compelling evidences from different studies support Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus, and Bacteroides genera and Lactobacillus plantarum and Akkermansia muciniphila species significant in diabesity management. The probable mechanisms reported for gut microbial dysbiosis-induced diabesity are mentioned. The review findings suggest gut microbiome as significant therapeutic target for diabesity management. Moreover, ecofriendly nanonutraceuticals developed using natural products including food-grade materials are efficient modulators of gut microbiome and indicate next-generation diabesity therapeutics. Clinical studies are imperative as further exploration may provide new dimensions to the future research.