Targeted Proteomics and Integrative Approaches Reveal the Plasma Exosomal Profile in Thyroid Disorders, Focusing on Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Associated with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
By
Yawei Zhang
Xiaolong Ma
Wenjing Shi
Tianyi Dong
Zhen Wang
Mao Ding
Xingchen Shang
Xingsong Tian
May 25, 2026
Objective: To identify plasma-derived exosomal biomarkers associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in the context of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT).
Key Findings: A total of 45 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified between PTC-W and HT. DEPs were predominantly involved in extracellular matrix–receptor interactions and immune response pathways. SVEP1 and IGKV3-7 were validated as having consistent and statistically significant expression levels. Interpretation: SVEP1 and IGKV3-7 may serve as promising plasma exosomal biomarkers for PTC in patients with HT.
Limitations: The study included a small sample size of only three patients per group. Further validation in larger cohorts is necessary to confirm findings. Conclusion: The study provides insights into the progression from HT to PTC and highlights potential non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers.