bims-exocan 2025-02-09 papers

Issue of 2025–02–09
four papers selected by
Muhammad Rizwan, COMSATS University

Future Sci OA. 2025 Dec;11(1): 2461940

Extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis and future diagnostics of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Anđela Batur, Ruđer Novak, Grgur Salai, Stela Hrkač, Vesna Ćosić, Lovorka Grgurević.

Extracellular vesicles are a group of heterogeneous particles secreted during both physiological and pathological conditions which serve in intercellular communication and play a role in the development and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma, the most common malignant tumor of the head and neck with a high mortality rate. Extensive research is being conducted in order to determine the precise role of extracellular vesicles in oncogenic processes and to explore the possible application of extracellular vesicles as early tumor biomarkers. In this review, we aimed to systematize observed roles extracellular vesicles might play in organizing of tumor microenvironment, tumor invasion and metastasis, as well as the impact of extracellular vesicles on immune dysregulation and development of resistance to chemotherapeutics. Additionally, we summarized findings involving the potential use of extracellular vesicles cargo proteins as early disease biomarkers.

Keywords: Extracellular vesicles; biomarkers; oncology; oral squamous cell carcinoma; proteomics

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/20565623.2025.2461940

Front Immunol. 2025 ;16 1510650

A new weapon: the application of tumor vaccines based on extracellular exosomal heat shock proteins in immunotherapy.

Kexin Yi, Chengpeng Sun, Yalin Yuan, Zhaowei Luo, Hongliang Luo, Yunhe Xie.

Despite the significant advancements in cancer research, innovative approaches are still needed to reduce tumor incidence, progression, and dissemination, as well as for prolonging patient survival. Currently, the development of cancer vaccines is gaining attention as a novel preventative and therapeutic strategy. Although the concept of cancer vaccination is not new, a limited number of vaccines have received approval for tumor therapy. Heat shock protein (HSP)-based vaccination represents a promising strategy that harnesses specific tumor antigens to activate immune responses. Exosomes (Exs) are highly heterogeneous bilayer vesicles capable of transporting various types of molecules through extracellular space. Compared with conventional anticancer drugs, exosomes exhibit low toxicity and good biocompatibility, and they can stimulate the immune system either directly or indirectly. Ex-based vaccines may elicit an antitumor immune response that generates memory cells capable of recognizing cancer antigens, thereby inhibiting disease progression. This paper reviews the potential applications of HSPs and exosomes in the prevention and treatment of solid tumors. Finally, we discuss the advantages of the extracellular exosomal heat shock protein (HSP-Ex) vaccine and future research directions aimed at optimizing heat shock protein-based cancer immunotherapy strategies.

Keywords: exosomes; heat shock proteins; immunotherapy; tumor microenvironment; tumor vaccines

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1510650

J Control Release. 2025 Feb 06. pii: S0168-3659(25)00082-3. [Epub ahead of print]380 269-282

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) in pancreatic cancer progression and diagnosis.

Reaid Hasan, Zhen Zhao, Yuanke Li, Yanli Liu, Yuanyuan Zhang, Kun Cheng.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive malignancies with poor prognostic outcomes, necessitating the exploration of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for early detection and effective treatment. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) secreted by cells, have gained considerable attention in cancer research due to their role in intercellular communication and their potential as non-invasive biomarkers. This review focuses on the role of sEVs in the progression of pancreatic cancer and their application as biomarkers. We delve into the biogenesis, composition, and functional implications of sEVs in pancreatic tumor biology, emphasizing their involvement in processes such as tumor growth, metastasis, immune modulation, and chemotherapy resistance. In addition, we discuss the challenges in isolating and characterizing sEVs. The review also highlights recent advances in the utilization of sEV-derived biomarkers for the early diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of pancreatic cancer. By synthesizing the latest findings, we aim to underscore the significance of sEVs in pancreatic cancer and their potential to revolutionize patient management through improved diagnostics and targeted therapies.

Keywords: Biomarker; Cancer associated fibroblast; Cancer stem cells; Drug delivery; Exosome; Pancreatic cancer; sEV

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.01.072

Funct Integr Genomics. 2025 Feb 01. 25(1): 32

The role of exosomal non-coding RNAs in the breast cancer tumor microenvironment.

Mohamed J Saadh, Omer Qutaiba B Allela, Radhwan Abdul Kareem, Suhas Ballal, Mamata Chahar, Suman Saini, G V Siva Prasad, Hayder Naji Sameer, Atheer Khdyair Hamad, Zainab H Athab, Mohaned Adil.

The leading form of cancer affecting females globally is breast cancer, characterized by an unregulated growth of cells within the breast. Therefore, examining breast tissue is crucial in accurately identifying and treating this disease. Exosomes are very small enclosures bounded by a layer of cells and produced by a variety of cells present in the cancerous tissue surroundings. They play a crucial role in several biological functions in cancerous tumors. These exosomes carry non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and are discharged into the TME, where they are instrumental in the development and advancement of tumors. Additionally, the ncRNAs enclosed in exosomes act as significant mediators of communication within cells. Consequently, there is limited comprehension regarding the precise roles and targets of exosomal RNA in regulation, as research in this area is still in its preliminary phases. This piece provides a comprehensive overview of the latest studies on exosomes, delving into their impact on the behavior of cancer cells and immune cells. Moreover, it presents a compilation of the diverse forms of non-coding RNA molecules found in exosomes released by both cancerous and supportive cells, including circular RNAs, microRNAs, and long non-coding RNAs. Current research has proven the noteworthy influence that non-coding RNA molecules have on the progression, proliferation, drug resistance, and immune responses of breast cancer cells.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Exosome; Non-coding RNAs; Tumor microenvironment

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10142-025-01531-2