Fruit- and Vegetable-Derived Exosome-like Nanovesicles: A Review

Abstract

Fruit- and vegetable-derived exosome-like nanovesicles (FV-ELNs) are nanovesicles characterized by a lipid bilayer membrane that encloses a diverse array of biologically active constituents, including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and small-molecule bioactive compounds. FV-ELNs have attracted considerable research interest in recent years due to their favorable biocompatibility and natural origin. The bioactive cargo encapsulated within these vesicles confers a range of pharmacological activities, encompassing anti-inflammatory, gut microbiota-modulating, and antioxidant effects, suggesting their potential for applications in food preservation, functional food development, and bioactive compound delivery. This review presents the current methods for isolation and characterization of FV-ELNs, their compositional features, and bioactivities, as well as the potential for food-industry applications. Moreover, the challenges and future directions are also addressed, offering an updated perspective on their role as natural complements to synthetic agents in functional foods and dietary interventions.