Applications of Extracellular Vesicles in Nervous System Disorders: An Overview of Recent Advances

Abstract

Diseases affecting the brain and spinal cord fall under the umbrella term “central nervous system disease”. Most medications used to treat or prevent chronic diseases of the central nervous system cannot cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and hence cannot reach their intended target. Exosomes facilitate cellular material movement and signal transmission. Exosomes can pass the blood–brain barrier because of their tiny size, high delivery efficiency, minimal immunogenicity, and good biocompatibility. They enter brain endothelial cells via normal endocytosis and reverse endocytosis. Exosome bioengineering may be a method to produce consistent and repeatable isolation for clinical usage. Because of their tiny size, stable composition, non-immunogenicity, non-toxicity, and capacity to carry a wide range of substances, exosomes are indispensable transporters for targeted drug administration. Bioengineering has the potential to improve these aspects of exosomes significantly. Future research into exosome vectors must focus on redesigning the membrane to produce vesicles with targeting abilities to increase exosome targeting. To better understand exosomes and their potential as therapeutic vectors for central nervous system diseases, this article explores their basic biological properties, engineering modifications, and promising applications.

Current progression in application of extracellular vesicles in central nervous system diseases

“…In addition, EVs can deliver bioactive substances through various pathways, safely and efficiently transferring these substances to participate in cellular metabolism. Leveraging the absorption mechanisms of EVs in cells enhances the efficiency of transporting nucleic acids, enzymes, and small-molecule drugs [ 174 ]. EVs, ideal for transporting molecular drugs, have found widespread application in studying vascular diseases, malignant tumors, neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric conditions, and genetic diseases, providing new strategies for treating neurological disorders.…”

Exosomes: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications in Cancer

“…Exosomes can deliver drugs to target sites over a great distance. Exosomes can cross cytoplasmic membranes and the blood–brain barrier [ 131 , 132 ]. Although natural exosomes cannot achieve the expected therapeutic effects, they can be modified to load various anticancer molecules.…”

“… Exosomes as delivery vehicles. ( A ) Advantages and disadvantages of exosomes as delivery vehicles [ 123 , 124 , 125 , 126 , 127 , 128 , 129 , 130 , 131 , 132 ]. ( B ) Exogenous loading involves the loading of various cargoes, such as drugs, DNAs, ncRNAs, and proteins, into native exosomes.…”

Most recent advances and applications of extracellular vesicles in tackling neurological challenges

“…4 Currently, one in six people have been diagnosed with a neurological disorder worldwide. 5 Various neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's disease (HD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease (PD), stroke, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) affect a large percentage of the aging population with no effective treatment options constitute a significant challenge for the clinical research. Despite the extensive research, improved diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy for central nervous system (CNS) diseases is urgently needed to design novel therapeutic strategies.…”

“…The burden of neurological disorders is increasing and showing variations in the trends across the United States 4 . Currently, one in six people have been diagnosed with a neurological disorder worldwide 5 . Various neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's disease (HD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease (PD), stroke, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) affect a large percentage of the aging population with no effective treatment options constitute a significant challenge for the clinical research.…”