| Exosomal Non-coding RNAs in the Tumor Microenvironment: Emerging Roles in Cancer Progression and Personalized Therapy |
| Paper ID : 1238-IGA |
| Authors |
|
Hesam Aminian *1, Parinaz Khanjanpoor2 1University of Eastern Piedmont "Amedeo Avogadro" 2Department of Health and Science, School of Medicine, University of Piedmont Orientale (UPO), Novara, Italy |
| Abstract |
| Background and Aim: Exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are key mediators of intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment (TME), influencing cancer progression through modulation of proliferation, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. This review aims to provide mechanistic insights into the roles of exosomal ncRNAs in the TME and evaluate their emerging potential in personalized cancer therapy. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using keywords including "exosomal non-coding RNA," "tumor microenvironment," "cancer progression," and "personalized therapy" across databases such as PubMed and Frontiers journals. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed articles published in English from 2015 to 2025. Results: Exosomal ncRNAs are selectively packaged into exosomes secreted by tumor and stromal cells, modulating recipient cell behavior in the TME. They regulate key oncogenic pathways by promoting tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, and chemoresistance. For example, tumor-associated macrophage-derived exosomal ncRNAs induce M2 polarization and enhance tumor invasiveness. Exosomal ncRNAs also contribute to immune escape by inducing T cell exhaustion and upregulating immune checkpoint molecules. Clinically, their stability in body fluids makes them promising non-invasive biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. Furthermore, exosomes serve as natural vehicles for delivering therapeutic ncRNAs, enabling targeted and personalized interventions. Conclusion: Exosomal ncRNAs play multifaceted roles in shaping the tumor microenvironment and cancer progression. Their dual utility as biomarkers and therapeutic agents positions them at the forefront of personalized oncology. Continued research into their mechanisms and delivery strategies will facilitate their clinical translation, improving cancer diagnosis and individualized therapy. |
| Keywords |
| Exosomal non-coding RNA, Tumor microenvironment, Cancer progression, Personalized therapy |
| Status: Accepted |
