Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Bladder Cancer Biomarkers: Take It or Leave It?

Bladder cancer (BC) is the 10th most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. Although urine cytology and cystoscopy are current standards for BC diagnosis, both have limited sensitivity to detect low-grade and small tumors. Moreover, effective prognostic biomarkers are lacking. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipidic particles that contain nucleic acids, proteins, and metabolites, which are released by cells into the extracellular space, being crucial effectors in intercellular communication. These particles have emerged as potential tools carrying biomarkers for either diagnosis or prognosis in liquid biopsies namely urine, plasma, and serum. Herein, we review the potential of liquid biopsies EVs' cargo as BC diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers. Additionally, we address the emerging advantages and downsides of using EVs within this framework.

Automated summary

Bladder cancer is the 10th most common cancer worldwide, and current diagnostic methods have limited sensitivity and lack effective prognostic biomarkers. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as potential tools for liquid biopsy-based diagnosis and prognosis, as they carry biomarkers and play a crucial role in intercellular communication. However, there are advantages and downsides to using EVs in this context.