Nanoscale Delivery of MicroRNAs via Extracellular Vesicles: Mechanisms Potential in Modulating Cellular Senescence

Senescence refers to the gradual decline in function and physiological integrity of organisms over time, signifying an irreversible natural process of life. Senescence is associated with abnormal alterations in intercellular communication, where signaling molecules exchanged between cells can either accelerate or impede this process. In the rapidly evolving field of nanomedicine, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as natural nanoscale delivery vehicles that facilitate the highly efficient transfer of diverse cargoes, including microRNAs (miRNAs), DNA, lipids, and proteins. Compared to synthetic nanocarriers, EVs possess superior biocompatibility and the unique ability to cross biological barriers. MiRNAs encapsulated within these endogenous nanoparticles have demonstrated the ability to regulate several aging processes both in vivo and in vitro. Notably, although there are still some challenges regarding the clinical translation of EV-derived miRNAs from stem cells, macrophages, and the circulatory system, their potential for nanotherapeutic applications in the field of anti-aging remains undeniable.Here, we comprehensively summarize the regulatory functions of EV-delivered miRNAs during the aging process and propose novel bio-inspired nanomedicine strategies for the anti-aging applications of EVs.