Topic: Extracellular Vesicles in Cancer: From Mechanisms of Action to Clinical Utility

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key mediators of cancer progression, metastasis, and intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment. They contribute to immune evasion and the establishment of pre-metastatic niches, thereby facilitating tumor spread and survival. These lipid bilayer-enclosed nanovesicles carry a diverse array of bioactive molecules—including lipids, membrane proteins, RNAs, and occasionally DNA. Notably, the cargo composition, surface markers, and functional properties of cancer cell-derived EVs differ markedly from those of EVs derived from normal cells. As our understanding of EV biology continues to advance, their potential as diagnostic biomarkers, therapeutic delivery vehicles, and prognostic tools is rapidly moving from experimental research toward clinical application.

This rapidly evolving field is the focus of an upcoming Special Issue in EVCNA, dedicated to showcasing the latest breakthroughs in EV research and their pivotal roles in cancer biology. The issue will feature cutting-edge original research and comprehensive reviews exploring the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of EVs across various cancer types.

Regarding nomenclature and terminology, we recommend using the term extracellular vesicles (EVs) or exosomes for highly purified vesicles. However, if the material studied does not undergo a purification step (e.g., flotation or size exclusion chromatography), we suggest using the term EV-enriched secretome for cell culture-derived material. For body fluids, terms such as EV-enriched serum, EV-enriched plasma, EV-enriched sputum, EV-enriched urine, and similar formulations should be used accordingly.