Oral natural extracellular vesicles for biomedical applications: Advances and clinical perspectives

Background

Natural extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale vesicles derived from diverse biological sources, recognized for their roles in intercellular communication and therapeutic cargo delivery. Due to their intrinsic biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and ability to traverse biological barriers, EVs have garnered increasing interest as oral drug delivery vehicles. However, despite growing preclinical research, there is currently no comprehensive review that systematically focuses on EVs specifically for oral delivery applications—a critical gap in the literature.

Aim of Review

This review aims to systematically summarize and critically assess the current progress in the development of EVs as oral drug delivery systems. It integrates knowledge on EVs sources, extraction and engineering strategies, and their therapeutic potential across a range of diseases. By addressing this underexplored yet promising area, the review seeks to establish a foundational reference for both basic researchers and clinical innovators.

Key Scientific Concepts of Review

The review provides a comparative analysis of EVs from animal and plant origins, emphasizing their stability in the gastrointestinal tract and their ability to encapsulate and protect bioactive molecules. It explores the mechanisms by which EVs overcome physiological barriers such as intestinal epithelium and the blood–brain barrier (BBB), and how surface modifications enhance tissue targeting. The review covers therapeutic applications in oncology, neurodegenerative, metabolic, inflammatory, and infectious diseases, highlighting advantages in improving oral bioavailability and reducing side effects. It also identifies current challenges in standardization, large-scale production, and drug loading efficiency. The review concludes by proposing future directions for optimizing EVs-based oral delivery systems and facilitating their clinical translation.