EXOSOMES - BASED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS: EMERGING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TARGETED THERAPEUTICS AND PRECISION MEDICINE

Abstract

Exosome-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising platform for targeted therapeutics
and precision medicine because of their excellent biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and intrinsic
ability to transport diverse therapeutic molecules. Unlike conventional nanocarriers, exosomes
efficiently deliver proteins, nucleic acids, and small-molecule drugs while overcoming biological
barriers, including the blood–brain barrier. This review highlights the biological characteristics,
biogenesis, sources, isolation, purification, and characterization techniques of exosomes. It also
discusses recent advances in drug-loading strategies, surface engineering, and exosome modification to
improve targeting efficiency and therapeutic performance. Furthermore, the review summarizes the
applications of exosome-based drug delivery in cancer, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases,
inflammatory conditions, infectious diseases, regenerative medicine, and gene therapy. Despite their
remarkable therapeutic potential, challenges related to large-scale production, standardization, storage
stability, and regulatory approval remain significant barriers to clinical translation. Continued research
and technological advancements are expected to facilitate the successful integration of exosome-based
therapeutics into personalized healthcare.