Mingtang Zeng,1,* Maozhu Liu,2,* Xuelin Tao,1,* Xi Yin,1 Chao Shen,1 Xueyan Wang1 

1Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China; 2Center of Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China

*These authors contributed equally to this work

Correspondence: Xueyan Wang, Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, People’s Republic of China, Email wxy1226@126.com

Abstract: Inflammation involves complex immune responses where cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6 promote vasodilation and increased vascular permeability to facilitate immune cell migration to inflammation sites. Persistent inflammation is linked to diseases like cancer, arthritis, and neurodegenerative disorders. Although oral anti-inflammatory drugs are favored for their non-invasiveness and cost-effectiveness, their efficacy is often compromised due to gastrointestinal degradation and limited bioavailability. Recent advancements highlight the potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as nanocarriers that enhance drug delivery by encapsulating therapeutic agents, ensuring targeted release and reduced toxicity. These EVs, derived from dietary sources and cell cultures, exhibit excellent biocompatibility and stability, presenting a novel approach in anti-inflammatory therapies. This review discusses the classification and advantages of orally administered EVs (O-EVs), their mechanism of action, and their emerging role in treating inflammatory conditions, positioning them as promising vectors in the development of innovative anti-inflammatory drug delivery systems.

Keywords: extracellular vesicles, anti-inflammatory, drug delivery systems, food, oral administration