The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a class of spherical vesicles that are produced by active secretion of cells and encapsulated by phospholipid bilayers. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that EVs play pivotal roles in the regulation of intercellular communication between colorectal cancer (CRC) cells and target cells, and can regulate the proliferation, metastasis, and infiltration of tumor cells by regulating the microenvironment of tumor cells. EVs carry specific molecular substances in source CRC cells and are expected to serve as new molecular markers for the detection of cancers. This review highlights the current state of research and progress of potentially incorporating EVs in the diagnosis and treatment of CRC.