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Review

The Roles of Extracellular Vesicles in Malignant Melanoma

by
Ying-Chen Cheng
1,†,
Yu-An Chang
1,†,
Yi-Jen Chen
2,3,4,5,†,
Hsu-Min Sung
6,
Ivan Bogeski
6,
Hong-Lin Su
7,
Ya-Ling Hsu
2,8 and
Hui-Min David Wang
1,9,10,*
1
Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
2
Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
3
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
4
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
5
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
6
Molecular Physiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center, Georg August University, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
7
Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
8
Drug Development and Value Creation Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
9
Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, China Medical University, Taichung City 404, Taiwan
10
Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
†
Those authors contributed equally to this work.
Cells 2021, 10(10), 2740; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells10102740
Submission received: 15 July 2021 / Revised: 13 September 2021 / Accepted: 22 September 2021 / Published: 14 October 2021
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanisms of Cancer Cell Invasion)
Browse Figures
Versions Notes

Abstract

:
Different types of cells, such as endothelial cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, pericytes, and immune cells, release extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the tumor microenvironment. The components of EVs include proteins, DNA, RNA, and microRNA. One of the most important functions of EVs is the transfer of aforementioned bioactive molecules, which in cancer cells may affect tumor growth, progression, angiogenesis, and metastatic spread. Furthermore, EVs affect the presentation of antigens to immune cells via the transfer of nucleic acids, peptides, and proteins to recipient cells. Recent studies have also explored the potential application of EVs in cancer treatment. This review summarizes the mechanisms by which EVs regulate melanoma development, progression, and their potentials to be applied in therapy. We initially describe vesicle components; discuss their effects on proliferation, anti-melanoma immunity, and drug resistance; and finally focus on the effects of EV-derived microRNAs on melanoma pathobiology. This work aims to facilitate our understanding of the influence of EVs on melanoma biology and initiate ideas for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

1. Melanoma

Human skin is the first layer of defense, protecting us from external factors and providing control of body temperature and storage of moisture and fat. Skin cancer is a common malignancy, with three major types (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma), which have different precursor cells. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are classified as non-melanoma skin cancers [1]. Malignant melanoma which is derived from melanocytes is the most aggressive, invasive, and life-threatening skin cancer [2]. Risk factors for melanoma development include fair skin and exposure to sunlight while ultraviolet light exposure is one of the main causes of the development of melanoma [3]. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 132,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year worldwide. Especially in white (Caucasian) people, melanoma is becoming more common, mostly due to their less pigmented skin, which renders this population more susceptible to ultraviolet light exposure [4].
Metastasis is a multistep process. The first step involves tumor cells invading the basal membrane and entering the blood vessels. Then, these tumor cells circulate in the blood stream until their attachment at the site of metastasis and initiate subsequent extravasation. Finally, they colonize and grow in distal host organs. In melanoma, vascular invasion occurs predominantly via lymphatic vessels. Vascular invasion is associated with factors indicative of a poor prognosis, including stage, increased Breslow thickness, and ulceration [5]. Cells can communicate by different types of EVs, which include exosomes, apoptotic bodies, and microvesicles (MVs) [6]. EVs are important mediators of intercellular communication between cells and distal organs and are crucial to cancer progression [7]. The role of EVs in melanoma remains unclear. Research focusing on understanding the functions and effects of EVs is essential to improve the treatment for melanoma patients and reduce the risk of melanoma metastasis. This review will help scientists understand more about the relationship between EVs and aggressive cancer and inspire in-depth research to make greater progress and breakthroughs.

2. Classification and Biology of Extracellular Vesicles

EVs can mediate intercellular communication during many cellular processes, and this role of EVs has piqued the interest of the scientific community. Evidence of the existence and functions of EVs was first collected in 1946 through a combination of ultracentrifugation, electron microscopy, and functional studies [8]. In 1970, the term “extracellular vesicle” was used in a manuscript title for the first time [9]. In the 1970s–1980s, several independent studies identified the release of plasma membrane vesicles from rectal adenoma microvillus cells [10] and discovered virus-like particles in human cell cultures and bovine serum as preliminary findings of exosomes [11]. In 1983, detailed ultrastructural studies indicated that EVs are released through the fusion of multivesicular bodies (MVBs) with the cell membrane during immature red blood cell differentiation [12]. Since 2006, several reports have indicated that nucleic acids, proteins, and other molecules can be transferred between cells via EVs [13]. Through this shuttle-like mechanism, EVs modulate the activity of recipient cells and participate in various physiological and pathological processes, including tumor development, growth, progression, metastasis, and the development of drug resistance [14]. EVs express specific membrane proteins that facilitate EV interactions with particular recipient cells. This process was shown to be involved in organotropic metastatic spread [15]. Following these findings, researchers have isolated EVs from most cell types and biological fluids. The rapid development of the EV research community has been due to the establishment of the International Society of Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) in the early 2000s, which conducted rigorous and standardized work in this area, including the establishment of the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles. Commercial investment in EV diagnosis and treatment has also increased, and many companies have developed several cancer diagnostic tests based on EVs.
Based on their size and biogenesis, EVs can be classified into exosomes, MVs, and apoptotic bodies (Figure 1). Exosomes and MVs can be released by normal cells or cancer cells, although they differ in several aspects. Exosomes are nanosized vesicles of endocytic origin that bud from MVBs toward the lumen of the compartment and are released into the extracellular space. Their size varies from 30 to 100 nm and is limited by the size of the MVBs (40–200 nm) [16]. The content of exosomes includes proteins, DNA, mRNA, and microRNA. In particular, Rab GTPases, soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor activating protein receptors (SNAREs), Annexin, and Flotillin are enriched in EVs. Moreover, three transmembrane protein (CD9, CD63, and CD81) families are known to accumulate in the plasma membrane domain and are highly expressed in exosomes, thereby serving as biomarkers for exosomes [17].
EVs are known to facilitate intercellular communication between adjacent cells and distant cells [18,19]. EVs can be released by immune cells as antigen-presenting vesicles to stimulate antitumor immune responses or to induce carcinogenesis via suppressing inflammatory responses. EVs derived from tumor cells have also been shown to promote cancer cell proliferation by inactivating cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) or natural killer (NK) cells to suppress the immune response and promote regulatory CTL differentiation [20]. Within the nervous system, EVs are thought to be involved in the formation of myelin, the growth of neurites, and the survival of neurons [19]. In addition, several pathogenic proteins, such as viruses and β-amyloid peptides, have been reported to be transferred to other cells via EVs [21]. An important finding is that the roles of mRNAs and miRNAs in EVs from different sources are completely different from each other. Some studies have shown that EVs also circulate in various body fluids, including blood and urine, and their mRNAs and miRNAs can be transferred to recipient cells and participate in many biologically relevant processes, including immune response and angiogenesis [22].
To investigate the characteristics of EVs, a purification protocol is required to be constructed. Early researchers widely used differential ultracentrifugation (DUC) as the method for EV isolation, with its extensive applicability, large capacity, ease of scaling up, and relatively high purification quality. By using DUC, large particles, such as whole cells, cell debris, subcellular structures, and other contaminants, can be removed under a low centrifugal speed. Thenceforth, scientists elevated the centrifugal force to precipitate EVs. Recently, it was verified that DUC outplays five commercial purification kits in terms of vesicle purity, which was a suitable approach for EV research up to the present. However, DUC-isolated EVs may suffer from the contaminants of other non-vesicular particles. Owing to the distinction in particle density between EVs and nano-contamination, density-gradient ultracentrifugation (DGUC) was applied to increase the purity of EVs. According to the minimal information from studies of extracellular vesicles 2018 (MISEV2018), several components, especially sucrose gradient solution, were applied as the medium for EV purification. Configuring the separation medium with gradient densities across the density range of EVs, crude isolated samples are loaded onto the top of the medium and undergo a longer ultracentrifugation period for further purification. Despite all of the advantages of DUC and DGUC, the pricey equipment and time-consuming process are a matter of concern. The centrifugal- and shearing-force-induced structural damage or aggregation also impede the downstream application. Nonetheless, the enhanced purity and quality of EVs provide a step forward in the research on nanoparticles [23].

3. EVs Derived from Melanoma and Their Role in Cancer Progression

Biological information between adjacent tumor cells can be transmitted through tumor-derived EVs in a paracrine manner. This signal transduction between malignant cells not only promotes cancer growth and metastasis but also can interfere with normal signaling pathways [24]. Tumor cells may metastasize to distant organs in the body and regulate the tumor microenvironment to form pre-metastatic niches; in these cases, tumor-derived EVs may be potential biomarkers for tumor progression and invasion [25]. In addition, tumor-derived EVs are expected to be used as carriers for cell-free vaccines and for the delivery of specific tumor therapeutic molecules. In this section, we focus on the role of tumor-derived EVs in melanoma development and metastasis and their potential applications in advancing the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma and personalized medicine.

3.1. Growth and Angiogenesis

The literature indicates that the addition of EVs to a human cell culture enhances EV production and supports cell proliferation [20]. The biodistribution of cancer-derived EVs in tumor tissues is an important factor in determining the role of EVs in tumor proliferation [26]. In vivo experiments have shown that B16BL6 melanoma cells secrete and absorb B16BL6 cell-secreted EVs to induce their own proliferation and inhibit their own apoptosis, promoting tumor progression [27]. EV uptake by target cells relies on the integrity of plasma membrane microdomains, namely lipid rafts, which are known to be enriched with cholesterol. Scavenger receptor type-B1 (SR-B1) is a high-affinity receptor for mature high-density lipoproteins (HDLs), and SR-B1 maintains cholesterol equilibrium, uptakes extracellular material, and promotes cell signaling [28,29]. The expression of SR-B1 in melanoma enhances EV formation and cellular uptake, promoting a metastatic phenotype. SR-B1 is associated with the expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and the regulation of proto-oncogene mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) factor. SR-B1 is a key molecule for regulating EV uptake and cancer growth [30]. Wnt Family Member 5A (WNT5A) regulates the release of EVs containing the immunomodulatory cytokine IL-6 and proangiogenic factors IL-8, VEGF, and MMP2 from melanoma cells (MeWo, SKmel28, A2058, A375, and HTB63). This effect increases angiogenic processes and facilitates metastatic spread [31]. Hood et al. indicated that melanoma EVs can boost endothelial angiogenic responses to create a premetastatic niche [32]. A previous report indicated that miR-155 in melanoma-derived EVs can induce reprogramming of fibroblasts into CAFs (cancer-associate fibroblast) and trigger the proangiogenic switch of these CAFs [33].

3.2. Migration and Invasion

Studies on melanoma cell migration and invasion and on the underlying molecular mechanisms are essential for improving melanoma diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. EVs play an important role in this regard and regulate the migratory and invasive capacity of melanoma cells. Several studies have demonstrated that EVs can increase migratory and invasive capacities [34]. EVs derived from melanoma cells have also been shown to increase type I interferon receptor (IFNAR1) and cholesterol 25-hydroxylase (CH25H) in normal cells, thus facilitating EV uptake and pre-metastatic niche development [35]. Matrix metalloproteinases (ADAM) and ADAM with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) are enriched in melanoma-derived EVs. These proteins are critical for degrading the extracellular matrix of cancer cells and increasing metastatic spread [36]. Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1) is a multifunctional RNA-binding protein that has been linked to the development of a variety of malignancies. According to previous research, EVs derived from IGF2BP1-overexpressing melanoma cells exacerbate EV-induced metastasis [37]. Xiao et al. showed an increase in invasiveness when normal melanocytes were treated with melanoma EVs [38]. Melanoma usually metastasizes to the lungs, bones, liver, and brain and rarely to other organs. The current mechanism of this pattern needs further understanding, but it is likely that EVs play an important role. For example, melanoma cells are exposed to bone-derived soluble factors, which are related to the molecular activation pathway of stromal-cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1)/CXC chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4)/type 7 CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR7). To this end, EVs reprogram the innate osteotropism of melanoma cells by upregulating their CXCR7 expression [39]. These results suggest that melanoma-cell-derived EVs contribute to melanoma metastasis. In addition, adipocytes secrete EVs, which are oxidized by fatty acids and are absorbed by tumor cells, resulting in increased metastasis and invasion of melanoma [40]. EVs from melanoma cells with poor metastatic potential potently inhibit metastasis to the lung and trigger immune surveillance, resulting in the elicitation of a broad range of monocyte (PMO)-reliant innate immune responses. Furthermore, Plebanek et al. suggested that cancerous cells are cleared at the pre-metastatic niche [41].

3.3. Tumor Microenvironment

The interactions of cancer cells with their environment determines whether the primary tumor is contained, metastasizes, or establishes dormant micrometastases. EVs play essential roles in the interstitial transport and intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Metastatic tumor cells show increased ability to sort EV cargo (i.e., proteins and microRNAs) and to release EVs. EV cargo is then transferred to stromal cells, including those that are present in premetastatic niches. Furthermore, EVs promote tumorigenesis and invasion through a variety of mechanisms, resulting in premetastatic niche formation. The following table describes the roles of EVs in the TME [42] (Table 1).

3.4. Immune System

The tumor microenvironment controls immune surveillance and anti-tumor immunity [49], mainly through intra- and extracellular signaling. Immunoediting is a complex process that includes intra- and extracellular signals. EVs play an important role in immune escape, both directly and indirectly. The direct modulation of either immune cells or their immature precursors is mostly driven by EV-mediated anti-apoptotic or pro-apoptotic signaling during the melanoma cell migration. The indirect roles of EVs include the expansion and differentiation of negative regulators of the immune system, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs), thus promoting tumor cell escape from immune surveillance [50,51]. Several effects, i.e., mechanisms link EVs and the immune system (Table 2). Studies have shown that EVs secreted by tumor cells protect and maintain the growth of cancer cells, while EVs produced by normal cells, especially stem cells, inhibit tumor growth and suppress cancer progression [52]. Homing of melanoma exosomes to sentinel lymph nodes imposes synchronized molecular signals that effect melanoma cell recruitment, extracellular matrix deposition, and vascular proliferation in the lymph nodes [53]. In addition, tumor-derived EVs were shown to interfere with immunization by inducing loss of antigen expression, suppression of immune effector cells, exchange of nucleic acids, changes in recipient cell transcription, and inhibition of the immune cell response [54]. Other studies point out that tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells form a highly tolerant microenvironment, increasing tumor growth and allowing metastatic spread. Studies of anti-tumor immunity have explored the host’s immune responses and promote the development of new therapies and novel methods for use in future therapeutic methods [55].

3.5. Drug Resistance and Clinical Treatment

EVs are involved in the development and regulation of different cancer-related processes. Drug resistance of cancer cells is a huge clinical problem and requires further investigation. Nevertheless, it is known that drug-resistant tumor cells are able to enclose chemotherapeutic agents in EVs and transfer anticancer drugs out of tumor cells. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of EV-mediated drug resistance will help in the design of novel cancer treatments.
A large number of studies indicate that EVs play a crucial role in the development of the drug resistance of cancer cells (Table 3). Previous research has indicated that the use of BRAF kinase inhibitors (vemurafenib and dabrafenib) to treat melanoma patients bearing the BRAF-activating mutation V600E results in tumor regression, followed by quick development of drug resistance. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are upregulated and activate the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. EVs from drug-resistant melanoma cells were enriched with the RTK PDGFRβ, and delivering EVs rich in PDGFRβ to metastatic melanoma cells with the BRAF inhibitor-sensitive phenotype activated the PI3K/AKT pathway and resulted in the development of drug resistance [64]. Moreover, a novel truncated form of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) named ALKRES was found to be secreted in EVs. The transfer of ALKRES to sensitive, ALK-negative melanoma cells caused activation of the MAPK signaling pathway and transferred the characteristics of drug resistance to the recipient cells [65].

3.6. Small RNA (microRNA)

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute a class of small single-stranded noncoding RNAs (~22 nt in length) that suppress gene expression. miRNAs are transcribed in the nucleus by RNA polymerase II or III. Primary miRNA transcripts (pri-miRNAs) are cleaved through a complex that consists of the endonuclease Drosha and the RNA-binding protein DGCR8. Hairpin pre-miRNAs are exported to the cytoplasm and are cleaved by the endonuclease Dicer to form dsRNA–miRNA duplexes. The complementary strand of the mature miRNA sequence is degraded, facilitating miRNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) formation and targeting the complementary sequences in the 3′ UTR of target mRNAs inhibit translation. miRNAs regulate many physiological and pathophysiological processes, such as growth, differentiation, and cancer progression. miRNAs regulate hundreds of genes; thus, miRNAs can cause complex phenotypic changes [66]. The loss of certain miRNAs facilitates cancer growth, whereas overexpression of other miRNAs promotes cancer progression [67]. miRNAs change the phenotype of melanoma cells and metabolic pathways during melanoma progression. They also affect the extracellular matrix (ECM), which includes fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune system cells [68]. miRNAs have different functions in each step of the development of different cancers [69]. Cells have the ability to selectively sort miRNAs into EVs for secretion to nearby or distant targets. Moreover, certain disease states have also identified dysregulated EV-miRNA content, shedding light on the potential role of selective sorting in pathogenesis. The latest findings regarding the roles of EVs-relevant miRNAs in melanoma pathobiology are summarized in Table 4.

4. Therapeutic Applications of Extracellular Vesicles

There are several studies on EVs in therapeutic applications. Interestingly, tumor cells release subpopulations of EVs that differ in their molecular and biological characteristics. These differences are essential for the precise transfer of biological information between cells. Accordingly, different components of EVs derived from different cells have different effects depending on their source. Based on these features, monitoring EV phenotypes during treatment enables the discovery of specific EV profiles and an understanding of how these correlate with drug resistance development in melanoma patients. Further analysis of EV heterogeneity will help in understanding the biology of EVs in health and disease and accelerate the development of EV-based diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Melanoma is diagnosed with cancer-specific EV phenotypes from melanoma patient plasma by a multiplex EV phenotype analyzer chip that incorporates a nano-mixing-enhanced microchip and a multiplex surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanotag system [82]. For these reasons, the therapeutic potential of EVs deserves further consideration in the context of drug delivery and regenerative medicine [83]. For example, EVs combined with liposomes and nanoparticles offer novel therapeutic delivery methods. Specifically, EVs derived from cancer cells can be carriers of drugs for delivery and can effectively inhibit tumor proliferation because of their ability to transfer biologically active components and overcome biological barriers [84]. In addition to being considered as potential therapeutics, EVs have the ability to enhance tissue regeneration and serve as potential replacements for stem cell therapy, playing a role in reimmunization, which promotes regeneration and inhibits pathogens [85]. These properties can lead to a wide range of therapeutic applications, including vaccination, treatment for autoimmune diseases, cancer, and tissue damage (Table 5). In recent years, many drugs for melanoma have been developed, but stimulating cancer cell death is still the major strategy [86]. If cancer cells acquire drug resistance, therapeutic treatment becomes challenging and the mortality rate significantly increases. The injected EVs derived from colon cancer through the tail vein of NOD.CB17-Prkdcscid/NcrCrlBltw mice determined neoplastic transformation and metastases in the lungs of the mice [87]. Another study proved that the timing of EV administration is as critical as that of oral administration after resection of the primary tumor reversed the pro-metastatic effects of milk-derived EVs in breast cancer models [88]. EVs from a highly metastatic clonal variant of the osteosarcoma cell line were internalized by a poorly metastatic clonal variant of the same cell line and induced a migratory and invasive phenotype. It was pointed out that EVs derived from highly metastatic clonal variants drive metastatic behaviors [89]. EVs originated from the brain carry messages to cancer cells that modify glioma cell metabolism, reducing lactate, nitric oxide (NO), and glutamate (Glu) release. EVs affect Glu homeostasis, increasing the expression of Glu transporter Glt-1 on astrocytes [90]. Recently, there is increasing evidence showing that EVs promote cancer progression and metastasis. It is suggested that clinicians effectively control the secretion of pernicious exosomes and melanoma will be remedied comprehensively.

5. Conclusions

EVs are important modulators of inter- and intracellular communications. EVs regulate diverse cellular processes, and they also contribute to cancer development and metastasis. The EV components can be transferred to other cells, affecting the physiological processes of the recipient cells and influencing the entire tumor microenvironment. EVs offer a valuable alternative to the current therapeutic options. They serve as nanoscale vehicles for drug delivery and have great potentials in this regard, not only because of their high biocompatibility, but also due to their low cytotoxicity. Tumor-cell-derived extracellular vesicle surface antigens have a huge effect on the immune system and can be modified by various agents to directly affect tumor cells or regulate antitumor immunity. The high EV heterogeneity is a problem in exploring their full therapeutic potential. Regarding their application as drug carriers, the disadvantages include low transfection efficiency and high dependence on cell division for cases in which cell cycle manipulation is required. In addition, the experimental conditions must be precisely controlled during nanoparticle delivery to avoid vesicle rupture. Thus, verifying the roles of EVs in clinical practice is not a simple endeavor, and more research is needed before EVs can be practically applied as therapeutic tools (Figure 2). Nevertheless, EVs offer a fully new approach for treating melanoma and other cancers. Understanding their regulation and biological features has a high potential to improve cancer treatment in the future.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, Y.-C.C., Y.-A.C., Y.-J.C. and H.-M.D.W.; figures and tables, Y.-C.C., Y.-A.C. and Y.-J.C.; writing, Y.-C.C., Y.-A.C., Y.-J.C., H.-L.S., Y.-L.H., H.-M.S., I.B. and H.-M.D.W. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

We thank the Ministry of Science and Technology for the grant (Taiwan, MOST 109-2221-E-005-012), the Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital (KAFGH_D_109014), the National Chung Hsing University (ENABLE: 108ST001B and 110ST001G), the Kasetsart University Joint Research Project (108RA129A), and the NCHU-MIRDC Bilateral Joint Research Project (110S0703B). H.M.S. and I.B. acknowledge the financial support by SFB1190 P17.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Not applicable.

Informed Consent Statement

Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement

Not applicable.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Cells 10 02740 g001 550
Figure 1. Origin, classification, composition, and biological function of EVs.
Figure 1. Origin, classification, composition, and biological function of EVs.
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Figure 2. The summary of EV effectiveness in cancer therapeutic treatments.
Figure 2. The summary of EV effectiveness in cancer therapeutic treatments.
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Table
Table 1. The mechanisms of tumor microenvironment regulations in cancers.
Table 1. The mechanisms of tumor microenvironment regulations in cancers.
MethodMechanismReference
pHExtracellular acidity may increase the ability of cancer cells to release EVs. The pH of the environment can be used to regulate the release of EVs, affecting the development of the tumor or the control of drug resistance.[43]
EMT pathwayDuring EV-mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like processes, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway is activated and promotes metastasis. It was demonstrated that melanoma-cell-derived EVs promote the EMT in the tumor microenvironment.[44]
InflammatoryEVs secreted by metastatic melanoma cells spontaneously metastasize to the lungs and brain and activate proinflammatory signals that induce cell inflammation to promote tumor metastasis.[45]
MetabolismmiRNA inhibitors of melanoma-derived EVs regulate stromal cell metabolism, inhibit the activity of miR-155 and miR-210, and may contribute to the promotion of metastasis.[46]
Immune systemThe lipid, protein, DNA, mRNA, and miRNA components in EVs are transferred to recipient tumor cells, affecting many immune-related pathways, leading to the activation, differentiation, and expression of the immune cells and the regulation of the tumor microenvironment, thus affecting tumor development, metastasis, and drug resistance.
EVs are regulated and released by the TME and regulate the cell biology of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), including promoting their activation and amplification and enhancing their immunosuppressive functions.		[47,48]
Table
Table 2. The effect of tumor-derived EVs in immune systems.
Table 2. The effect of tumor-derived EVs in immune systems.
TargetMechanismReference
CD8(+) effector T cellsMelanoma-derived EVs induce immune suppression by promoting T regulatory cell expansion and destroying antitumor CD8(+) effector T cells, thus leading to tumor escape.[56]
CD4+ T cellsMelanoma-derived EVs may directly activate the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway of CD4+ T cells through the microRNA in the EVs.[57]
PTENTumor-secreted miR-214 is sufficiently delivered to recipient T cells by EVs specifically targeting mouse peripheral CD4+ T cells. miR-214 downregulates phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and promotes Treg expansion. Tumor-derived EVs enhance immune suppression and tumor implantation/growth in mice.[58]
MHCThe major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules and EVs have an important correlation with the induction of antigen-specific T cell responses and the stable development of tumors.[59]
PD-L1Increased tumor surface expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) facilitates tumor cell escape from immune surveillance. PD-L1 interacts with the programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptor on T cells to elicit the immune checkpoint response. Metastatic melanomas release EVs that carry PD-L1 on their surface, which suppresses the function of CD8(+) T cells and facilitates tumor growth.[60]
PTPN11Melanoma-derived EVs provide a complex biological load, and the upregulation of tumor tyrosine-protein phosphatase nonreceptor type 11 (PTPN11) expression by B16F0 EVs suppresses T lymphocyte function.[61]
M1 and M2 macrophagesEVs derived from melanoma in premetastatic lymph nodes trigger angiogenesis in tumors by inducing classically activated (M1) and alternatively activate (M2) macrophage-mediated angiogenesis by inducing endothelial cell proliferation.[62]
NKG2DMelanoma-cell-derived EVs downregulate NKG2D expression in natural killer cells to induce immune suppression.[63]
Table
Table 3. The effect of tumor-derived EVs on drug resistance.
Table 3. The effect of tumor-derived EVs on drug resistance.
Gene IDMechanismsReference
ALKALK activates the MAPK signaling pathway to target cancer. Combined treatment with the inhibitor of ALK and BRAF can significantly reduce tumor growth and induce apoptosis in melanoma.[65]
PDGFRβPDGFRβ is a resistance driver transferred to recipient melanoma cells via EVs, resulting in the activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB) signaling and escape from the MAPK pathway in BRAF-inhibitor-sensitive cells, thus influencing drug sensitivity in the recipient melanoma cells.[64]
Table
Table 4. The mechanisms and target locations of microRNA in melanoma.
Table 4. The mechanisms and target locations of microRNA in melanoma.
miRNA IDEV OriginEffectTarget SiteReference
let-7g-5pPatient’s plasmaIncreases levels of let-7g-5p in EVs, which is associated with better disease controlMAPK[70]
miR-34aPatient’s plasmaPrevents tumor relapse and blocks tumor cell proliferationβ-catenin[71]
miR-211MelanosomeTargets IGF2R and leads to activation of MAPK signaling, which promotes melanoma growthIGF2R[72]
miR-222Melanoma EVsIncreases tumor malignancyPI3K/AKT[73]
miR-155, miR-210Melanoma EVsModulate stromal cell metabolism, which promotes the development of metastasisOXPHOS[46]
miR-709, miR-2137Melanoma EVsModulate T cell functionPD-L1[74]
miR-494Melanoma EVsSuppresses tumor growth and metastasis when levels are increasednone[75]
miR-146a, miR-155, miR-125b, miR-100, miR-125a, miR-146b, miR-99bMelanoma EVsConvert myeloid cells into myeloid-derived suppressor cellsCTLA-4, PD-1[76]
miR-106b-5pMelanoma EVsActivates the ERK pathwayEphA4[77]
miR-205MelanomaRegulates E2F-regulated AKT phosphorylation to inhibit the proliferative capacity of melanoma cellsE2F1, E2F5[78]
miR-182MelanomaSuppresses the expression of MITF and FOXO3 and stimulates migration of melanoma cellsMITF and FOXO3[79]
miR-21MelanomaUpon upregulation in melanocytes, increases the proliferation rate and decreases the apoptosis ratePTEN[80]
miRNA-342MelanomaTargets zinc-finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) and decreases the proliferation and invasion rates of melanoma cells.ZEB1[81]
Table
Table 5. The therapeutic applications of EVs in cancer.
Table 5. The therapeutic applications of EVs in cancer.
MethodMechanismsReference
NanoparticleAcridine orange (AO) is an eosinophilic dye that is coated onto a system with EVs as nanocarriers for molecular therapy. AO not only extends the time of drug delivery but also attenuates the toxicity induced in normal cells. Exo-AO treatment has great potential and can be used as a new method for treating tumors by delivering Exo-AO.
Nanoplatforms, such as EVs modified with targeting ligands, can improve the anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects of imperialin. The system not only significantly improves the release of the drug in the tumor but also is more biocompatible, showing extremely low systemic toxicity both in vitro and in vivo. This platform provides a new method for more efficient use of EVs for drug delivery and targeting.
EV biomimetic porous sputum nanoparticles (PSiNPs) secreted by biocompatible tumor cells were developed as drug carriers for targeting cancer chemotherapy. After intravenous administration, the drug is delivered with specificity.		[91,92,93]
ChemotherapyEVs can act as carriers for chemotherapeutic/chemopreventive agents to suppress tumor proliferation.[94]
VaccineEVs loaded with tumor antigens and Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens have great potential to be used as vaccines to overcome the immune escape of tumor cells after genetic modification.[95]
Gene therapyThe suicide fusion gene construct was loaded into EVs derived from nontumorigenic cell lines. Delivery to glioblastoma cell lines and spheres effectively induced apoptosis of glioblastoma cells and thus inhibited tumor growth in vivo.[96]
InhibitorCD133 (Prominin-1) is a stem cell marker that is involved in the development of tumors, differentiation, and anticancer treatment. The use of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) inhibitors to induce CD133 + release in cancer cell EVs has potential as an antitumor mechanism.[97]
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Cheng, Y.-C.; Chang, Y.-A.; Chen, Y.-J.; Sung, H.-M.; Bogeski, I.; Su, H.-L.; Hsu, Y.-L.; Wang, H.-M.D. The Roles of Extracellular Vesicles in Malignant Melanoma. Cells 2021, 10, 2740. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells10102740

AMA Style

Cheng Y-C, Chang Y-A, Chen Y-J, Sung H-M, Bogeski I, Su H-L, Hsu Y-L, Wang H-MD. The Roles of Extracellular Vesicles in Malignant Melanoma. Cells. 2021; 10(10):2740. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells10102740

Chicago/Turabian Style

Cheng, Ying-Chen, Yu-An Chang, Yi-Jen Chen, Hsu-Min Sung, Ivan Bogeski, Hong-Lin Su, Ya-Ling Hsu, and Hui-Min David Wang. 2021. "The Roles of Extracellular Vesicles in Malignant Melanoma" Cells 10, no. 10: 2740. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells10102740

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