Research advances in extracellular vesicles for diagnosis and treatment of genitourinary cancers

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as vital mediators of intercellular communication, playing crucial roles in the initiation, progression, and metastasis of urogenital cancers. Due to their ability to carry diverse biological molecules and their excellent biocompatibility, EVs have garnered significant attention as novel tools for the diagnosis and treatment of malignancies such as prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular cancers. This review summarizes recent progress in understanding the biological functions of EVs in various urogenital tumors, integrates findings from both fundamental studies and clinical trials, and discusses ongoing obstacles and future prospects in the field. By providing insights into the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of EVs, this article aims to support the development of precision medicine strategies for urogenital cancer patients.