Application of Extracellular Vesicles in Lysosomal Storage Disorders: Addressing a Rare Disease

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  • (School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510080, China)
△ yaoxingang@smu.edu.cn

Received date: 2024-07-29

  Revised date: 2024-08-10

  Accepted date: 2024-08-27

  Online published: 2025-04-25

Abstract

Lysosomal storage disorders (LSD) are a rare class of diseases caused by mutations in genes encoding lysosomal hydrolases, leading to metabolic disorders. These disorders arise from either the absence of functional lysosomal hydrolases or damage to the lysosomes. Impaired degradation of complex macromolecules leads to the accumulation of substrates in tissues and subsequent dysfunction of cells and organs. Current treatment options for LSDs primarily include enzyme replacement therapy, substrate reduction therapy, and chaperone therapy. However, most of these treatments do not cure the disease, but merely delay its progression. They necessitate continuous administration of medications, which can be financially burdensome, and often fail to effectively reach target sites due to various challenges, resulting in diminished therapeutic effects. Therefore, there is an urgent need for more effective and thorough treatment options. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are naturally secreted components with potential applications in various diseases. However, their role and therapeutic potential in the context of LSDs remain unclear. This article summarizes current research progress on EVs in two common LSDs, Fabry disease and Gaucher disease, by reviewing literature from PubMed. It discusses biomarkers associated with EVs in the diagnosis and treatment of LSDs, as well as advancements in engineered EVs for therapeutic applications.

Cite this article

ZHONG Yi, GUO Min-Jing, TONG Huan-Yue, LIU Shu-Wen, YAO Xin-Gang△ . Application of Extracellular Vesicles in Lysosomal Storage Disorders: Addressing a Rare Disease[J]. Progress in Physiological Sciences, 2025 , 56(2) : 105 -111 . DOI: 10.20059/j.cnki.pps.2024.10.1157·

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