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Extraction of Extracellular Vesicles from Whole Tissue
Published on: February 7, 2019
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Focus on Extracellular Vesicles: Introducing the Next Small Big Thing.
Hina Kalra1, Gregor P C Drummen2, Suresh Mathivanan3
1Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia. hkalra@students.latrobe.edu.au.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|February 11, 2016
Summary
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are novel mediators of intercellular communication, moving beyond traditional signaling. Research into their roles in disease is rapidly expanding, highlighting their complex functions.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Intercellular communication traditionally involves direct cell contact or soluble molecules.
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs), small secreted vesicles, represent a newly discovered mechanism for intercellular signaling.
- Initially considered cellular waste disposal, EVs are now recognized for complex roles in communication and compound exchange.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an introductory overview of extracellular vesicles (EVs).
- To discuss the biogenesis and molecular composition of EVs.
- To highlight the current state of research on EVs, particularly their roles in disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on extracellular vesicles.
- Analysis of the biogenesis pathways for EVs.
- Examination of the molecular cargo and composition of EVs.
Main Results:
- EVs mediate intercellular communication through complex cargo transfer.
- While some EVs function in waste removal (e.g., apoptotic bodies), many have intricate signaling roles.
- Growing evidence implicates EVs in disease progression, driving significant research interest.
Conclusions:
- Extracellular vesicles represent a significant frontier in understanding signal transduction.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the physiological and pathological roles of EVs.
- Understanding EV biogenesis and composition is crucial for advancing the field.
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