Extracellular vesicles and Wnt signaling: New implications for cancer research

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as important players in intercellular communication, capable of transferring signaling molecules between cells and altering their behavior and function. More and more studies reveal an association of factors of the Wnt pathway with EVs. A tight and coordinated regulation of Wnt signaling is essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis, and dysregulation has been associated with several diseases, including cancer. The influence of Wnt signaling on EV biogenesis has revealed a new mechanism by which Wnt proteins can regulate the creation of a favorable tumor microenvironment promoting the growth and survival of cancer cells. This review summarizes our current understanding of the connections between EVs and Wnt signaling and discusses their relevance in human cancer.