The role of Exosomal miRNAs in cancer

Exosomal miRNAs have attracted much attention due to their critical role in regulating genes and the altered expression of miRNAs in virtually all cancers affecting humans (Sun et al. in Mol Cancer 17(1):14, 2018). Exosomal miRNAs modulate processes that interfere with cancer immunity and microenvironment, and are significantly involved in tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis and drug resistance. Fully investigating the detailed mechanism of miRNAs in the occurrence and development of various cancers could help not only in the treatment of cancers but also in the prevention of malignant diseases. The current review highlighted recently published advances regarding cancer-derived exosomes, e.g., sorting and delivery mechanisms for RNAs. Exosomal miRNAs that modulate cancer cell-to-cell communication, impacting tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis and multiple biological features, were discussed. Finally, the potential role of exosomal miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic molecular markers was summarized, as well as their usefulness in detecting cancer resistance to therapeutic agents.

Automated summary

Exosomal miRNAs play a critical role in regulating genes and their altered expression is associated with almost all human cancers. They modulate processes that interfere with cancer immunity and microenvironment, and significantly impact tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance. Understanding the detailed mechanisms of miRNAs in cancer development could contribute to both cancer treatment and prevention of malignant diseases. This review highlights recent advances in cancer-derived exosomal miRNAs, including their sorting and delivery mechanisms, as well as their potential as diagnostic and prognostic markers and in detecting cancer resistance to therapeutic agents.