The Roles of Tumor-Derived Exosomes in Cancer Pathogenesis

Abstract EN

Exosomes are endosome-derived, 30–100 nm small membrane vesicles released by most cell types including tumor cells.

They are enriched in a selective repertoire of proteins and nucleic acids from parental cells and are thought to be actively involved in conferring intercellular signals.

Tumor-derived exosomes have been viewed as a source of tumor antigens that can be used to induce antitumor immune responses.

However, tumor-derived exosomes also have been found to possess immunosuppressive properties and are able to facilitate tumor growth, metastasis, and the development of drug resistance.

These different effects of tumor-derived exosomes contribute to the pathogenesis of cancer.

This review will discuss the roles of tumor-derived exosomes in cancer pathogenesis, therapy, and diagnostics.