New insights into Epstein-Barr virus-associated tumors: Exosomes

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is endemic worldwide and is associated with a number of human tumors. EBV-associated tumors have unique mechanisms of tumorigenesis. EBV encodes multiple oncogenic molecules that can be loaded into exosomes released by EBV(+) tumor cells to mediate intercellular communication. Moreover, different EBV(+) tumor cells secrete exosomes that act on various target cells with various biological functions. In addition to oncogenicity, EBV(+) exosomes have potential immunosuppressive effects. Investigating EBV(+) exosomes could identify the role of EBV in tumorigenesis and progression. The present review summarized advances in studies focusing on exosomes and the functions of EBV(+) exosomes derived from different EBV-associated tumors. EBV(+) exosomes are expected to become a new biomarker for disease diagnosis and prognosis. Therefore, exosome-targeted therapy displays potential.