Advances in research on exosome biomarkers in common malignant brain tumors

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can be divided into apoptotic bodies, microvesicles and exosomes based on their origin and size. Exosomes are among the smallest and most characteristic vesicles that can be secreted by different types of cells, including nervous system cells and their originating tumor cells, which perform important functions in the nervous system. Exosomes extracted from blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are carriers of eukaryotic cells used to exchange biological information such as proteins, mRNA, and microRNA (miRNA). These biomolecules are involved in cell signaling, tumor cell proliferation and migration, and angiogenesis. Exosomes are not only a new biomarker detection method, but also provide potential molecular therapeutic targets, and are expected to become carriers of anti⁃cancer drug delivery. This review will focus on the current status of exosomes in glioblastoma and medulloblastoma, which is the most common in adults and children, and biomolecules carried by exosomes. The role of biomarkers in brain tumors and their application prospects in clinical treatment are discussed.

DOI：10.3969/j.issn.1672⁃6731.2019.11.006