Exosomes: potential for early detection in pancreatic cancer

Future Oncol. 2016;12(8):1081-90. doi: 10.2217/fon-2015-0005. Epub 2016 Feb 10.

Abstract

Progress in the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer at earlier stages has motivated research in identifying novel noninvasive or minimally invasive biomarkers for early detection. Exosomes, which contain bioactive molecules (such as proteins, RNAs and lipids), are membrane-structured nanovesicles that are secreted from living cells and are found in human body fluids. As functional mediators, exosomes play key roles in cell-cell communications, regulating diverse biological processes. Here we aim to examine recent findings in the potential diagnostic value of serum exosomes in pancreatic cancer.

Keywords: biomarkers; early detection; exosomes; pancreatic cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Early Detection of Cancer
  • Exosomes / genetics
  • Exosomes / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / genetics
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Proteomics / methods

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • MicroRNAs