Exosomal miRNAs assist in the crosstalk between tumor cells and immune cells and its potential therapeutics

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that carry active substances (including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids) and are essential for homeostasis and signal transmission. Recent studies have focused on the function of exosomal miRNAs in tumor progression. Researchers have expanded the use of exosomes and miRNAs as potential therapeutic tools and biomarkers to detect tumor progression. Immune cells, as an important part of the tumor microenvironment (TME), secrete a majority of exosome-derived miRNAs involved in the biological processes of malignancies. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Currently, there is no literature that systematically summarizes the communication of exosome-derived miRNAs between tumor cells and immune cells. Based on the cell specificity of exosome-derived miRNAs, this review provides the first comprehensive summary of the significant miRNAs from the standpoint of exosome sources, which are tumor cells and immune cells. Furthermore, we elaborated on the potential clinical applications of these miRNAs, attempting to propose existing difficulties and future possibilities in tumor diagnostics and therapy.

Automated summary

This article summarizes the role of exosomes as important mediators of intercellular communication in tumor progression. By studying the function of exosomal miRNAs, researchers have identified them as potential therapeutic tools and biomarkers for tumor progression. However, there is currently a lack of systematic review on the communication mechanisms of exosome-derived miRNAs between tumor cells and immune cells. This review provides a comprehensive summary of important miRNAs from tumor cells and immune cells based on the cell specificity of exosome-derived miRNAs, and elaborates on their potential clinical applications in tumor diagnostics and therapy.