Extracellular vesicles: The next generation in gene therapy delivery

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are esteemed as a promising delivery vehicle for various genetic therapeutics. They are relatively inert, non-immunogenic, biodegradable, and biocompatible. At least in rodents, they can even transit challenging bodily hurdles such as the blood-brain barrier. Constitutively shed by all cells and with the potential to interact specifically with neighboring and distant targets, EVs can be engineered to carry and deliver therapeutic molecules such as proteins and RNAs. EVs are thus emerging as an elegant in vivo gene therapy vector. Deeper understanding of basic EV biology—including cellular production, EV loading, systemic distribution, and cell delivery—is still needed for effective…

• NI
  National Institute of Mental Health

  Awards: R01 113407-01, 113407-01
• NI
  National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

  Awards: R56AI147684, R01 113407-01