Engineering Magnetic Extracellular Vesicles Mimetics for Enhanced Targeting Chemodynamic Therapy to Overcome Ovary Cancer

Extracellular Vesicle-Based Drug Delivery Systems in Cancer Therapy

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer-enclosed particles secreted by cells and ubiquitously present in various biofluids. They not only mediate intercellular communication but also serve as promising drug carriers that are capable of delivering therapeutic agents to target cells through their inherent physicochemical properties. In this review, we summarized the recent advances in EV isolation techniques and innovative drug-loading strategies. Furthermore, we emphasized the distinct advantages and therapeutic applications of EVs derived from different cellular sources in cancer treatment. Finally, we critically evaluated the ongoing clinical trials utilizing EVs for drug delivery and systematically assessed both the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing EV-based drug delivery systems in cancer therapy.

Intranasal delivery of engineered extracellular vesicles promotes neurofunctional recovery in traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of disability in adults, significantly affecting patients' quality of life. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) have demonstrated therapeutic potential in TBI treatment. However, their limited targeting ability, short half-life, and low bioavailability present significant challenges for clinical application. In this study, we engineered extracellular vesicles (EEVs) by transfecting hADSCs with lentivirus and incorporating ultra-small paramagnetic nanoparticles (USPNs), resulting in EVs with enhanced miRNA expression and targeted delivery capabilities. These EEVs were administered intranasally to specifically target injury sites, effectively modulating the NF-κB signaling pathway to suppress neuroinflammation. In both in vitro and in vivo assessments, EEVs exhibited superior efficacy in promoting neurofunctional recovery and neurogenesis after brain injury compared to unmodified EVs. Furthermore, validation using human brain organoid models confirmed EEVs' remarkable ability to suppress neuroinflammation, offering a promising strategy for TBI treatment.

Targeted delivery of extracellular vesicles: the mechanisms, techniques and therapeutic applications

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived vesicles with a phospholipid bilayer measuring 50-150 nm in diameter with demonstrated therapeutic potentials. Limitations such as the natural biodistribution (mainly concentrated in the liver and spleen) and short plasma half-life of EVs present significant challenges to their clinical translation. In recent years, growing research indicated that engineered EVs with enhanced targeting to lesion sites have markedly promoted therapeutic efficacy. However, there is a dearth of systematic knowledge on the recent advances in engineering EVs for targeted delivery. Herein, we provide an overview of the targeting mechanisms, engineering techniques, and clinical translations of natural and engineered EVs in therapeutic applications. Enrichment of EVs at lesion sites may be achieved through the recognition of tissue markers, pathological changes, and the circumvention of mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS). Alternatively, external stimuli, including magnetic fields and ultrasound, may also be employed. EV engineering techniques that fulfill targeting functions includes genetic engineering, membrane fusion, chemical modification and physical modification. A comparative statistical analysis was conducted to elucidate the discrepancies between the diverse techniques on size, morphology, stability, targeting and therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, a summary of the registered clinical trials utilizing EVs from 2010 to 2023 has been provided, with a full discussion on the perspectives. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and techniques associated with targeted delivery of EVs in therapeutic applications to advocate further explorations of engineered EVs and accelerate their clinical applications.