Streamlined miRNA loading of surface protein-specific extracellular vesicle subpopulations through electroporation

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.

Optimizing therapeutic outcomes: preconditioning strategies for MSC-derived extracellular vesicles

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) are increasingly recognized for their therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine, driven by their capabilities in immunomodulation and tissue repair. However, MSCs present risks such as immunogenic responses, malignant transformation, and the potential to transmit infectious pathogens due to their intrinsic proliferative and differentiative abilities. In contrast, MSC-EVs, particularly exosomes (MSC-exosomes, 30-150 nm in diameter), offer a safer therapeutic profile. These acellular vesicles mitigate risks associated with immune rejection and tumorigenesis and are inherently incapable of forming ectopic tissues, thereby enhancing their clinical safety and applicability. This review highlights the therapeutic promise of MSC-exosomes especially focusing on the modulation of miRNA (one of bioactive molecules in MSC-EVs) profiles through various preconditioning strategies such as exposure to hypoxia, chemotherapeutic agents, inflammatory cytokines, and physical stimuli. Such conditioning is shown to optimize their therapeutic potential. Key miRNAs including miR-21, miR-146, miR-125a, miR-126, and miR-181a are particularly noted for their roles in facilitating tissue repair and modulating inflammatory responses. These functionalities position MSC-exosomes as a valuable tool in personalized medicine, particularly in the case of exosome-based interventions. Despite the potential of MSC-EVs, this review also acknowledged the limitations of traditional MSC therapies and advocates for a strategic pivot towards exosome-based modalities to enhance therapeutic outcomes. By discussing recent advances in detail and identifying remaining pitfalls, this review aims to guide future directions in improving the efficacy of MSC-exosome-based therapeutics. Additionally, miRNA variability in MSC-EVs presents challenges due to the diverse roles of miRNAs play in regulating gene expression and cell behavior. The miRNA content of MSC-EVs can be influenced by preconditioning strategies and differences in isolation and purification methods, which may alter the expression profiles of specific miRNAs, contributing to differences in their therapeutic effects.