Letter to the Editor: Cell source dictates the effect - a critical consideration for exosome-based cancer therapies

Abstract

Exosomes are increasingly recognized as versatile tools in cancer therapy. Here, we read with great interest the study by Ababneh et al published in the recent issue of World Journal of Stem Cells, which presents a nuanced insight into the complex role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived exosomes in cancer. This study crucially demonstrates that the anti-cancer effects of MSCs-exosomes are not universal but are profoundly source-dependent. The finding that exosomes from induced pluripotent stem cell-derived MSCs consistently and potently induce a senescence-like state in aggressive cancer cells, while those from bone marrow MSCs show variable and weaker effects, has several key implications. It underscores that the functional “fingerprint” of an exosome is dependent on its parent cell, and highlights the paramount importance of exosome source selection, moving beyond generic “MSCs-derived exosomes” to specify and compare origins. On this basis, we call for the need for rigorous standardization and functional profiling of exosome preparations to ensure reproducibility and clinical relevance.

Keywords: Exosome; Cell source; Cancer therapies; Mesenchymal stem cells; Induced pluripotent stem cells

Core Tip: Building on the study by Ababneh et al, we emphasize that the anti-cancer effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived exosomes are profoundly source-dependent. The research demonstrates that exosomes from induced pluripotent stem cell-derived MSCs potently induce senescence in aggressive cancer cells, whereas those from bone marrow MSCs show weaker effects. This highlights the critical need to move beyond generic “MSCs-exosome” descriptions. We advocate for rigorous standardization and functional profiling of exosome sources to ensure reproducibility and clinical relevance in future therapies.