EXOSOMES - BASED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS: EMERGING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TARGETED THERAPEUTICS AND PRECISION MEDICINE

Abstract

Exosome-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising platform for targeted therapeuticsand precision medicine because of their excellent biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and intrinsicability to transport diverse therapeutic molecules. Unlike conventional nanocarriers, exosomesefficiently deliver proteins, nucleic acids, and small-molecule drugs while overcoming biologicalbarriers, including the blood–brain barrier. This review highlights the biological characteristics,biogenesis, sources, isolation, purification, and characterization techniques of exosomes. It alsodiscusses recent advances in drug-loading strategies, surface engineering, and exosome modification toimprove targeting efficiency and therapeutic performance. Furthermore, the review summarizes theapplications of exosome-based drug delivery in cancer, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases,inflammatory conditions, infectious diseases, regenerative medicine, and gene therapy. Despite theirremarkable therapeutic potential, challenges related to large-scale production, standardization, storagestability, and regulatory approval remain significant barriers to clinical translation. Continued researchand technological advancements are expected to facilitate the successful integration of exosome-basedtherapeutics into personalized healthcare.