Extracellular vesicle-based targeted RNA therapies against cancer

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale vesicles released by cells and serve as natural carriers for RNAs, DNAs, proteins, and lipids that mediate intercellular communication. EV application as nanocarriers in targeted cancer therapy has gained significant attention. The delivery of RNAs via EVs has emerged as a promising technology in the past few decades, as EVs can encapsulate RNAs to protect them from degradation and enhance their uptake by recipient cells. Notably, chemical or genetic modifications to the surface of EVs can further strengthen their targeting ability. These advancements not only improve the specificity of RNA therapies but also address the challenges of RNA delivery associated with traditional methods. This review discusses the recent advancements in the delivery of messenger RNAs (mRNAs), miRNAs, siRNAs, and other RNA species for targeted cancer therapy via EVs. We aim to provide critical insights into the strategic design of advanced EV-based nanoplatforms for RNA delivery.