Abstract
Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles secreted by most cells. Exosomes play a crucial role in intercellular communication by transporting proteins, DNA, RNA, and other molecules from donor cells to recipient cells. This process influences various cellular functions, such as gene expression, homeostasis, and immune responses in the recipient cells. Additionally, exosomes have attracted attention as potential biomarkers for a range of diseases due to their ability to carry disease-specific molecules, especially cancer. Due to their low immunogenicity and high biocompatibility, exosomes also show great promise as RNA delivery vehicles, particularly for mRNA. Several methods have been established for loading RNA into exosomes. Advances in engineering exosomes to selectively transport mRNA to target cells have opened new therapeutic possibilities for treating diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and regenerative medicine, offering a novel approach to RNA-based therapies. In this review, we provide an overview of the roles of exosomal DNA, microRNA, and mRNA, the potential of exosomes as mRNA delivery carriers, and the challenges that still need to be addressed.
