PROteolysis Targeting Chimeras: A new cutting-edge nanomedicine for colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent malignancy with a high mortality rate, necessitating innovative treatment strategies. PROTACs (PROteolysis Targeting Chimeras) represent a promising therapeutic approach by targeting and degrading oncogenic proteins via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. This study explores the potential of using exosomes as delivery vehicles for PROTACs to enhance treatment efficacy. Exosomes, due to their biocompatibility and inherent targeting capabilities, offer a precise method for delivering PROTACs to CRC cells, potentially overcoming challenges associated with traditional therapies such as drug resistance and off-target effects. By harnessing the advantages of both exosome-based delivery and PROTAC technology, this approach aims to improve targeted protein degradation and therapeutic outcomes in CRC treatment. Further research is required to optimize exosome engineering, ensure efficient PROTAC loading, and validate the safety and efficacy of this novel therapeutic strategy through preclinical and clinical trials.

Keywords

colorectal cancer (CRC) / exosome-based delivery / nanomedicine / PROTACs (PROteolysis Targeting Chimeras) / targeted protein degradation

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RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2024 The Author(s). Clinical and Translational Discovery published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Shanghai Institute of Clinical Bioinformatics.