The role of extracellular vesicles in the development of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and potential clinical applications

Abstract Background Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can be secreted by a wide variety of cells, including tumor cells, and contain some bioactive molecules from the source cells. Therefore, they can potentially be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis of tumors and for tumor therapy. In addition, EVs can affect the features of target cells and participate in regulating the development process of tumors. Methods A literature review was conducted to elucidate the role of extracellular vesicles in the progression and treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Results In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of cell proliferation, angiogenesis, epithelial‐mesenchymal transformation and metastasis, immune response, and chemo‐radiotherapy resistance that are induced by EVs. We also reviewed the potential applications of EVs as biomarkers, therapeutic agents, and carriers so as to determine new directions for the early diagnosis and targeted therapy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The application limitations have also been discussed in this review, further work is needed to ensure optimal outcomes for patients. Conclusion Although the roles of extracellular vesicles in the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma have been summarized, some aspects are still unclear and need to be further studied. In addition, the applications of extracellular vesicles in the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma still need to optimize conditions to produce better therapeutic outcomes for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.