| Most cells release extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediating intercellular communication
via transferring various biomolecules including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. A
subset of EVs is exosomes that promote tumorigenesis. Different tumour cells such
as colorectal cancer (CRC) cells produce exosomes that participate in the progression
of CRC. Exosomes cargo including proteins and miRNAs not only support proliferation
and metastasis of tumour cells but also mediate chemoresistance, immunomodulation
and angiogenesis. In addition, as exosomes are present in most body
fluids, they can hold the great capacity for clinical usage in early diagnosis and prognosis
of CRC. Exosomes from CRC (CRC-Exo) differentially contain proteins and
miRNAs that make them a promising candidate for CRC diagnosis by a simple liquidbiopsy.
Despite hopeful results, some challanges about exosomes terminology and
definition remains to be clarified in further experiments. In addition, there are little
clinical trials regarding the application of exosomes in CRC treatment, therefore additional
studies are essential focusing on exosome biology and translation of preclinical
findings into the clinic. The present study discusses the key role of exosomes in CRC
progression and diagnosis. Furthermore, it describes the opportunity and challenges
associated with using exosomes as tumour markers. |