Functionalized exosome harboring bioactive molecules for cancer therapy. (1st October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, Yoon Kyoung; Choi, Yoonjeong; Nam, Gi-Hoon; Kim, In-San
• Is Part Of: Cancer letters. Volume 489(2020)
• Page Start: 155
• Page End: 162
• Publication Date: 2020-10-01
• Subjects: Exosome -- Cancer therapeutics -- Drug delivery -- Bioactive molecules; Cancer -- Periodicals; Neoplasms -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.994
• DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.05.036
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0304-3835

Abstract

Abstract: Exosomes are nanosized vesicles with a lipid membrane that are secreted by most cells and play a crucial role as intermediates of intercellular communication because they carry bioactive molecules. Exosomes are promising for drug delivery of chemicals, proteins, and nucleic acids owing to their inherent properties such as excellent biocompatibility, high tumor targetability, and prolonged circulation in vivo. In this review, we cover recent approaches and advances made in the field of exosome-mediated delivery of bioactive molecules for cancer therapy and factors that affect the clinical use of exosomes. This review can be used as a guideline for further study in expanding the utility of therapeutic exosomes. Highlights: Exosomes are promising in drug delivery of bioactive molecules such as chemicals, proteins, and nucleic acids. The advantages of exosomes are stability, biocompatibility, and low immunogeneicity. Exosomes show prolonged half-life and enhanced therapeutic efficacy than other drug delivery platforms. The lipid bilayer membrane structure of exosomes preserves the function of membrane proteins. Exosomes that bear specific surface proteins can penetrate the blood brain barrier and efficiently target tumor tissue.