Extracellular Vesicles in Veterinary Medicine: Biological Foundations, Diagnostic Opportunities, and Therapeutic Advances

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), membrane-enclosed nanoparticles, are pivotal mediators of intercellular communication with transformative potential in human and veterinary diagnostics and therapeutics. In veterinary medicine, EVs are increasingly recognized as minimally invasive biomarkers and next-generation biologics for regenerative medicine, immunomodulation, drug delivery, and oncology.

This review synthesizes the biological properties of EVs—including biogenesis, molecular composition, and cargo mechanisms—and evaluates current isolation and characterization techniques. Furthermore, it examines the diagnostic utility of EV-derived biomarkers and explores diverse therapeutic avenues, such as mesenchymal stromal cell-derived, milk-derived, and pathogen-associated EVs, alongside engineered platforms for targeted interventions.

By addressing current barriers and identifying research priorities, this article outlines the transition of EV science from experimental discovery to evidence-based implementation in precision veterinary medicine.