Engineered vesicles emerge as a promising drug delivery system in antiviral therapy
image: Biological characteristics, functions, and composition of Akk-EVs (A) Akk-EVs are enriched with proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA, and are involved in iron-regulated pathways. These vesicles facilitate host-microbe interactions by delivering bioactive molecules to host cells. (B) The functional roles of Akk-EVs include modulating immune responses and cellular signaling. For instance, Akk-EVs carry miRNAs such as let-7i, which regulate gene expression, Amuc_1100, a membrane protein that interacts with host factors like Lipin1 to influence metabolic pathways, and Amuc_2172, which acts as an acetyltransferase to promote HSP70 secretion, contributing to intestinal immune homeostasis and anti-inflammatory responses. (C) The composition of Akk-EVs includes OM and IM components, as well as core molecules like d-glucose and l-galactose, which contribute to their structural and functional specificity. These components play critical roles in mediating their effects on host cells.
Credit: Yu-di Wang, Wen-long Lin, Shang-yuan Wu, Xiao-jing He, Zi-hao Ou, Lei Zheng.
This review article, published in LabMed Discovery by Prasanna Ganesan and Rengarajan Murugesan, explores the role of engineered vesicles—specifically extracellular vesicles (EVs) and synthetic vesicles—in the field of antiviral drug delivery. With viral infections continuing to cause significant global health threats, there is a pressing need for efficient, targeted, and less toxic antiviral delivery systems. Engineered vesicles have emerged as a powerful nanotechnology-based approach due to their natural biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and ability to encapsulate diverse bioactive molecules.
The article outlines how extracellular vesicles, derived from cell membranes, naturally transport signaling molecules and genetic material between cells, making them ideal candidates for targeted therapy. Engineered or synthetic vesicles can be further optimized for stability, specificity, and controlled drug release. The review delves into the mechanisms by which vesicles can be engineered to target viral replication, block viral entry, or stimulate immune responses, particularly for diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and emerging infections like COVID-19.
Key advantages discussed include vesicles’ ability to cross biological barriers, extend drug half-life, and reduce systemic toxicity. The paper also examines various production methods, surface modifications, and cargo-loading techniques that enhance antiviral activity. Several case studies are presented, such as vesicle-mediated siRNA delivery to silence viral genes or vesicles loaded with antiviral drugs like remdesivir.
Despite their promise, the authors note challenges including production scalability, standardization, and the need for robust clinical data. They conclude that engineered vesicles represent a transformative advancement in antiviral therapy, with the potential to improve treatment efficacy, reduce side effects, and enable precision medicine. Future research should focus on addressing current limitations and translating this technology from bench to bedside.