Therapeutic potential of exosome‐based personalized delivery platform in chronic inflammatory diseases

Abstract

In the inflammatory microenvironment, there are numerous exosomes secreted by immune cells (Macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and platelets as intercellular communicators, which participate in the regulation of inflammation by modulating gene expression and releasing anti-inflammatory factors. Due to their good biocompatibility, accurate targeting, low toxicity and immunogenicity, these exosomes are able to selectively deliver therapeutic drugs to the site of inflammation through interactions between their surface-antibody or modified ligand with cell surface receptors. Therefore, the role of exosome-based biomimetic delivery strategies in inflammatory diseases has attracted increasing attention. Here we review current knowledge and techniques for exosome identification, isolation, modification and drug loading. More importantly, we highlight progress in using exosomes to treat chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), atherosclerosis (AS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Finally, we also discuss their potential and challenges as anti-inflammatory drug carriers.

Graphical abstract

Exosomes are nanoscale lipoprotein bilayer vesicles. In this paper, methods for identification, isolation, drug delivery and targeted modification are introduced. Subsequently, we reviewed the important therapeutic effects of the latest exosome-based delivery systems in chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, atherosclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease. The significance of this study is to provide a scientific basis for the exosome delivery system to treat chronic inflammation in vivo.