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Updated: Sep 6, 2025
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Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis for the Quantification and Size Determination of Extracellular Vesicles
Published on: March 28, 2021
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Characterizing Extracellular Vesicles Using Nanoparticle-Tracking Analysis
Modeline N Longjohn1, Sherri L Christian2
1Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|June 23, 2022
Summary
This guide details extracellular vesicle (EV) isolation and characterization using nanoparticle-tracking analysis (NTA). It offers methods, troubleshooting, and reporting standards to enhance data reproducibility in EV research for liquid biopsy and cancer studies.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial for intercellular communication and found in all body fluids.
- Accurate characterization of nanoscale EVs is challenging but vital for applications like liquid biopsy.
- Nanoparticle-tracking analysis (NTA) is an evolving technique for EV size and concentration measurement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive guide for isolating and characterizing extracellular vesicles (EVs).
- To detail the application of Nanoparticle-Tracking Analysis (NTA) using the NS300 instrument.
- To improve cross-laboratory reproducibility of NTA data for EV research.
Main Methods:
- Step-by-step protocols for various EV isolation techniques.
- Detailed methodology for EV characterization using Nanoparticle-Tracking Analysis (NTA).
- Inclusion of troubleshooting tips for NTA measurements.
Main Results:
- A standardized approach to EV isolation and characterization.
- Guidelines for reporting key NTA parameters to ensure data consistency.
- Enhanced understanding of EV behavior through Brownian motion tracking.
Conclusions:
- Standardized protocols and reporting are essential for advancing EV research.
- NTA offers a viable method for characterizing EVs for clinical applications.
- Improved reproducibility will accelerate the use of EVs in liquid biopsy and cancer diagnostics.
