Exosome-powered neuropharmaceutics: unlocking the blood-brain barrier for next-gen therapies

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Background The blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a formidable challenge in neuropharmacology, limiting the delivery of therapeutic agents to the brain. Exosomes, nature's nanocarriers, have emerged as a promising solution due to their biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and innate ability to traverse the BBB. A thorough examination of BBB anatomy and physiology reveals the complexities of neurological drug delivery and underscores the limitations of conventional methods. Main body This review explores the potential of exosome-powered neuropharmaceutics, highlighting their structural and functional properties, biogenesis, and mechanisms of release. Their intrinsic advantages in drug delivery, including enhanced stability and efficient cellular uptake, are discussed in detail. Exosomes naturally overcome BBB barriers through specific translocation mechanisms, making them a compelling vehicle for targeted brain therapies. Advances in engineering strategies, such as genetic and biochemical modifications, drug loading techniques, and specificity enhancement, further bolster their therapeutic potential. Exosome-based approaches hold immense promise for treating a spectrum of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), brain tumors, stroke, and psychiatric conditions. Conclusion By leveraging their innate

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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