Noncoding RNAs of Extracellular Vesicles in Tumor Angiogenesis: From Biological Functions to Clinical Significance

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) act as multifunctional regulators of intercellular communication and are involved in diverse tumor phenotypes, including tumor angiogenesis, which is a highly regulated multistep process for the formation of new blood vessels that contribute to tumor prolifer-ation. EVs induce malignant transformation of distinct cells by transferring DNAs, proteins, lipids, and RNAs, including noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). However, the functional relevance of EV-derived ncRNAs in tumor angiogenesis remains to be elucidated. In this review, we summarized current research progress on the biological functions and underlying mechanisms of EV-derived ncRNAs in tumor angiogenesis in various cancers. In addition, we comprehensively discussed the potential applications of EV-derived ncRNAs as cancer biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets to tailor anti-angiogenic therapy.