Overcoming the blood-brain barrier: Exosomes as theranostic nanocarriers for precision neuroimaging

J Control Release. 2022 Sep:349:902-916. doi: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.08.002. Epub 2022 Aug 5.

Abstract

Exosomes are cell-derived vesicles with a lipid bilayer membrane that play important roles in intercellular communication. They provide an unprecedented opportunity for the development of drug delivery nanoplatforms due to their low immunogenicity, low toxicity, biocompatibility, stability, and ability to change the functions of recipient cells. In addition, exosomes can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and then target and accumulate in relevant pathological brain regions. However, few studies have focused on the applications of exosomes as nanocarriers for use in precision neuroimaging studies. Thus, this report presents the feasibility of fabricating specific exosome-based diagnostic reagents for the application of personalized/precision radiology in the central nervous system based on important recent fundamental discoveries and technological advances.

Keywords: Blood-brain barrier; Brain targeting; Drug delivery; Exosomes; Neurological disorders; Precision radiology.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Blood-Brain Barrier
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Exosomes*
  • Lipid Bilayers
  • Neuroimaging
  • Precision Medicine

Substances

  • Lipid Bilayers