Abstract:  Exosomes are nanosized membrane microvesicles secreted by various living cells. They contain proteins, lipids, RNA, and a variety of other biological macromolecules. Exosomes play an important role in many pathological and physiological processes, such as antigen presentation in the immune system, repair of damaged tissues, and growth and migration of tumors. Tumor-derived or tumor-associated exosomes play a vital role in regulating the occurrence and development of tumors. The analysis and detection of exosomes in tumors is helpful for the early diagnosis of tumors and provide new treatment methods. This article reviews exosomes’ origin, composition, and functions in the development, migration, diagnosis, and treatment of tumors and provides new ideas for the treatment of tumors.

Key words: exosome, miRNA, migration, tumor markers, drug resistance, oncotherapy