Exosomal non-coding RNAs in colorectal cancer metastasis

Exosome ncRNAs can be used as non-invasive biomarkers and therapeutic targets for CRC metastasis. (A) Dysregulated exosome ncRNAs extracted from patients can be used as diagnostic markers for CRC metastasis. (B) Dysregulated exosomal ncRNAs can be used as biomarkers to monitor prognosis and recurrence in patients with CRC metastasis. (C) Dysregulated exosomal ncRNAs identified in in vitro and in vivo studies can be used as therapeutic targets in patients with CRC metastasis. [Display omitted] •Exosomal ncRNAs are essential regulators in almost every aspect of biology of human cancers.•Exosomal ncRNAs are emerging as pivotal regulators in the tumorigenesis, particularly in tumor metastasis.•Exosomal ncRNAs can regulate CRC metastasis by sponging miRNAs or binding protein.•Exosomal ncRNAs can be served as a promising target for the diagnosis and therapy of colorectal cancer metastasis. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a type of gastrointestinal cancer with high morbidity and mortality rates, and is often accompanied by distant metastases. Metastasis is a major cause of shortened survival time and poor treatment outcomes for patients with CRC. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the metastasis of CRC remain unclear. Exosomes are a class of small extracellular vesicles that originate from almost all human cells and can transmit biological information (e.g., nucleic acids, lipids, proteins, and metabolites) from secretory cells to target recipient cells. Recent studies have revealed that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) can be released by exosomes into the tumour microenvironment or specific tissues, and play a pivotal role in tumorigenesis by regulating a series of key molecules or signalling pathways, particularly those involved in tumour metastasis. Exosomal ncRNAs have potential as novel therapeutic targets for CRC metastasis, and can also be used as liquid biopsy biomarkers because of their specificity and sensitivity. Therefore, further investigations into the biological function and clinical value of exosomal ncRNAs will be of great value for the prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of CRC metastasis.