Abstract

EXOSOMES AS MULTIFUNCTIONAL NANOCARRIERS: INTEGRATIVE ROLES IN CANCER, CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE, AND CIRCADIAN REGULATION

Sweta Thakur, Sheetal Sharma*, Bhartendu Sharma, Vikramjeet Singh, Swati Sharma and Priyanka Kumari

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Abstract

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that range from 30 to 150 nanometers in size. They have emerged as essential mediators of intercellular communication, transporting bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells. Once thought to be mere cellular waste, exosomes are now recognized for their significant roles in various physiological and pathological processes, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and the regulation of circadian rhythms. Their ability to cross biological barriers, maintain stability in circulation, and deliver molecular cargo precisely to target sites makes them promising candidates for both diagnostics and therapeutics. In cancer, exosomes function as non-invasive liquid biopsies that reflect the genetic and proteomic profiles of tumor cells. This capability allows for early detection and the development of personalized treatment strategies. Furthermore, exosomes show great potential as vehicles for the targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic agents, although challenges remain regarding standardization, scalability, and the heterogeneity of isolation methods in clinical applications. In the context of cardiovascular disorders, exosomes released from cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and stem cells play critical roles in regulating inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial function—key factors in the pathogenesis of CVD. Their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic tools is actively being investigated, particularly focusing on their use as biomarkers and drug delivery systems in innovative treatment approaches. Emerging evidence also highlights the dynamic relationship between circadian rhythms and exosomal activity. Disruptions in circadian cycles can alter the secretion patterns and molecular content of exosomes, which in turn affects gene expression and metabolic pathways. Exosomes may even contribute to maintaining circadian homeostasis, suggesting new opportunities for chronotherapy and time-based disease management. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in exosome research, examining their diverse roles in cancer, cardiovascular disease, and circadian biology. It also highlights ongoing technological innovations aimed at overcoming current limitations, paving the way for the clinical application of exosomes in precision medicine.

Keywords: Exosomes, Cancer Diagnosis, Cardiovascular Diseases, Circadian Rhythms, Liquid Biopsy, Drug Delivery, Precision Medicine.