Extracellular Vesicles: Novel Potential Therapeutic Agents in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Abstract

Patients affected by inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) can nowadays benefit from a growing number of pharmacological options. However, in moderate-to-severe cases, the therapeutic response is still far from optimal, and treatment changes and optimizations are often required. Thus, researchers in this field are strongly engaged in studies aiming to identify new potential therapeutic targets. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny subcellular bodies with a phospholipid bilayer envelope containing bioactive molecules, which are released from different cells and are involved in intercellular communication. Recent pre-clinical data show their emerging role in the pathogenesis and treatment of IBD. In our review, we summarize current evidence about the function of EVs as active therapeutic agents in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, analyzing the properties of EVs derived from different cellular sources and the mechanisms through which they may improve intestinal inflammation.

Unveiling the Potential of Extracellular Vesicles as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Nanotools for Gastrointestinal Diseases

“…In severe cases, GIDs can lead to debilitating symptoms, significantly impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Depending on the diagnosis, current treatment options include lifestyle modifications, dietary interventions, gut microbiota manipulation, and the use of specific drugs [ 3 ]. However, the therapeutic response is often suboptimal, leading to the need for GID treatment optimization.…”