The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Immune Cell Exhaustion and Resistance to Immunotherapy Publisher Pubmed



A Aghakhani AVA ; Ps Pezeshki Parmida SADAT ; N Rezaei NIMA
Source: Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs Published:2024

Abstract

Introduction: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound nanoparticles for intercellular communication. Subtypes of EVs, namely exosomes and microvesicles transfer diverse, bioactive cargo to their target cells and eventually interfere with immune responses. Despite being a promising approach, cancer immunotherapy currently faces several challenges including immune resistance. EVs secreted from various sources in the tumor microenvironment provoke immune cell exhaustion and lower the efficacy of immunological treatments, such as CAR T cells and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Areas covered: This article goes through the mechanisms of action of various types of EVs in inhibiting immune response and immunotherapies, and provides a comprehensive review of EV-based treatments. Expert opinion: By making use of the distinctive features of EVs, natural or modified EVs are innovatively utilized as novel cancer therapeutics. They are occasionally coupled with currently established treatments to overcome their inadequacies. Investigating the properties and interactions of EVs and EV-based treatments is crucial for determining future steps in cancer therapeutics. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.