Cancer exosomes: wanted by many, explored by few, waiting for one

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and has a five-year survival rate of fifteen percent. It is projected that liver cancer will be one of the top three cancer killers by 2030 (1). HCC is an aggressive tumor type with poor prognosis due to the diverse etiological factors implicated in the development of HCC. In addition, heterogeneity and late diagnosis further complicate survival of HCC patients. Despite many potential therapeutic targets, the overall survival of HCC remains very poor.