Extracellular Vesicle Quantification and Characterization: Common Methods and Emerging Approaches

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a family of small membrane vesicles that carry information about cells by which they are secreted. Growing interest in the role of EVs in intercellular communication, but also in using their diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic potential in (bio) medical applicatio...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Thomas A. Hartjes, Serhii Mytnyk, Guido W. Jenster, Volkert van Steijn, Martin E. van Royen
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2019-01-01
Series:Bioengineering
Subjects:
Online Access:http://www.mdpi.com/2306-5354/6/1/7
Description
Summary:Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a family of small membrane vesicles that carry information about cells by which they are secreted. Growing interest in the role of EVs in intercellular communication, but also in using their diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic potential in (bio) medical applications, demands for accurate assessment of their biochemical and physical properties. In this review, we provide an overview of available technologies for EV analysis by describing their working principles, assessing their utility in EV research and summarising their potential and limitations. To emphasise the innovations in EV analysis, we also highlight the unique possibilities of emerging technologies with high potential for further development.
ISSN:2306-5354