Engineered exosomes for cancer theranostics: Next-generation tumor targeting

Abstract

Exosomes are multivesicular bodies of which the plasma membrane fuse to release the caring moiety into the surrounding body fluids. They are best known for their function in mediating intercellular connectivity by transferring various biomolecules, such as proteins, RNAs, and lipids, from one cell to another. These “naturally equipped” nanovesicles could be therapeutically targeted or engineered as drug delivery systems. The use of exosomes in cancer detection and prognosis has attracted a great deal of interest from academics. In addition to chemical, biological, and genetic engineering approaches, other current exosomal alteration methodologies hold promise for the advancement of therapeutic medicines for cancer. In this review, we highlight the theranostic potential of exosomes for therapeutic delivery in various cancers.