Mechanisms of function and clinical potential of exosomes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains one of the most lethal and widespread malignancies in China. Exosomes, a subset of tiny extracellular vesicles manufactured by all cells and present in all body fluids, contribute to intercellular communication and have become a focus of the search for new therapeutic strategies for cancer. A number of global analyses of exosome-mediated functions and regulatory mechanism in malignant diseases have recently been reported. There is extensive evidence that exosomes can be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers for cancer. However, our understanding of their clinical value and mechanisms of action in ESCC is still limited and has not been systematically reviewed. Here, we review current research specifically focused on the functions and mechanisms of action of ESCC tumor-derived exosomes and non-ESCC-derived exosomes in ESCC progression and describe opportunities and challenges in the clinical translation of exosomes.

Automated summary

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a deadly and common malignancy in China. Exosomes, tiny extracellular vesicles produced by all cells, play a crucial role in intercellular communication and have been studied as potential therapeutic strategies for cancer. Recent global analyses have explored the functions and regulatory mechanisms of exosomes in malignant diseases. Exosomes have been shown to have clinical value as diagnostic and prognostic markers for cancer. However, our understanding of their clinical significance and mechanisms of action in ESCC is limited and requires further review. This article provides an overview of current research on ESCC tumor-derived exosomes and non-ESCC-derived exosomes, focusing on their functions and mechanisms in ESCC progression, as well as the challenges and opportunities in their clinical translation.