Roles of Extracellular Vesicles on the Progression and Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Liver cancer is a global health challenge as it is the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer and is often found in liver cells, where it is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Recent studies have shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by HCC cells play a critical role in HCC progression and metastasis. EVs contain proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and metabolites as cargos. EVs derived from HCC cells can transfer oncogenic factors to surrounding cells leading to increased tumor growth, cell invasion, and angiogenesis. In this review, we summarize the roles that EVs play and the specific effects of their cargos on HCC progression and metastasis and identify potential therapeutic targets for HCC treatment.

Automated summary

Liver cancer is a global health challenge and the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Recent studies have shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by HCC cells play a critical role in HCC progression and metastasis by transferring oncogenic factors to surrounding cells. This review summarizes the roles of EVs and their cargos in HCC progression and metastasis, and identifies potential therapeutic targets for HCC treatment.