Harnessing the Therapeutic Potential of Extracellular Vesicles for Biomedical Applications Using Multifunctional Magnetic Nanomaterials

Small. 2022 Apr;18(13):e2104783. doi: 10.1002/smll.202104783. Epub 2022 Feb 8.

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (e.g., exosomes) carrying various biomolecules (e.g., proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids) have rapidly emerged as promising platforms for many biomedical applications. Despite their enormous potential, their heterogeneity in surfaces and sizes, the high complexity of cargo biomolecules, and the inefficient uptake by recipient cells remain critical barriers for their theranostic applications. To address these critical issues, multifunctional nanomaterials, such as magnetic nanomaterials, with their tunable physical, chemical, and biological properties, may play crucial roles in next-generation extracellular vesicles (EV)-based disease diagnosis, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. As such, one aims to provide cutting-edge knowledge pertaining to magnetic nanomaterials-facilitated isolation, detection, and delivery of extracellular vesicles and their associated biomolecules. By engaging the fields of extracellular vesicles and magnetic nanomaterials, it is envisioned that their properties can be effectively combined for optimal outcomes in biomedical applications.

Keywords: biosensors; exosomes; extracellular vesicles; magnetic nanomaterials; nanobiotechnology; nanomedicine; theranostics.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Exosomes*
  • Extracellular Vesicles* / metabolism
  • Magnetic Phenomena
  • Nanostructures*
  • Theranostic Nanomedicine