Extracellular vesicle-based theranostic intelligent drug delivery tool

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), as extracellular membrane particles, play a crucial role in intercellular signaling. Research suggests that EVs may be used as biomarkers for specific organs (such as the inner ear) or as drug delivery systems. The molecules released by EVs under stress and healthy conditions are different, and these active molecules can recognize the body's disease state. Research has shown that EVs can be used to deliver drugs to structurally complex organs, such as cochlear sensory hair cells and the brain, as they can cross the blood-labyrinth and blood-brain barrier. In this review, we summarize the biological composition and biogenesis of EVs, separation techniques, characterization methods, potential therapeutic applications as drug delivery carriers, drug loading methods, and potential applications in the treatment of the inner ear within the auditory system.