The effects of tumor-derived exosomes on T-cell function and efficacy of cancer immunotherapy

Abstract

Tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) are a class of extracellular vesicles which play an important role in the tumor microenvironment. These vesicles have multiple biological functions including promotion of cancer progression and reduction of anti-tumor immunity. Recently, interaction between TEXs and immune cells are of great interest in cell-based immunotherapy. Here, we review the effects of TEXs on the survival and functions of T cell subsets, as well as their clinical applications. Unraveling the immunoregulatory function of exosomes allows a better understanding of the molecular and cellular basis for cancer immunotherapy.