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Updated: Aug 27, 2025

Detection and Isolation of Apoptotic Bodies to High Purity
Published on: August 12, 2018
Apoptotic bodies for advanced drug delivery and therapy
Min Zhou1, Yong-Jiang Li1, Yu-Cheng Tang1
1Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
Abstract:
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as promising candidates for multiple biomedical applications. Major types of EVs include exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies (ABs). ABs are conferred most properties from parent cells in the final stages of apoptosis. A wide variety of sources and stable morphological features are endowed to ABs by the rigorous apoptotic program. ABs accommodate more functional biomolecules by relying on the larger volume and maintaining their naturalness in circulation. The predominant body surface ratio of ABs facilitates their recognition by recipient cells and is advantageous for interactions with microenvironments. ABs can modulate and alleviate symptoms of numerous diseases for their origins, circulation, and high biocompatibility. In addition, ABs have been emerging in disease diagnosis, immunotherapy, regenerative therapy, and drug delivery. Here, we aim to present a thorough discussion on current knowledge about ABs. Of particular interest, we will summarize the application of AB-based strategies for diagnosis and disease therapy. Perspectives for the development of ABs in biomedical applications are highlighted.
Insights
Apoptotic bodies (ABs), a type of extracellular vesicle, show great potential in biomedical applications due to their unique properties. This review highlights their diagnostic and therapeutic uses in various diseases.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Science
- Cell Biology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are key mediators in cell-to-cell communication.
- Apoptotic bodies (ABs) are a major class of EVs derived from cells undergoing apoptosis.
- ABs possess unique characteristics, including larger size and high biomolecule content, making them promising for biomedical uses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge regarding apoptotic bodies (ABs).
- To summarize the applications of AB-based strategies in disease diagnosis and therapy.
- To highlight future perspectives for ABs in diverse biomedical applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on apoptotic bodies.
- Analysis of the properties and functions of ABs in biological systems.
- Evaluation of current and emerging applications of ABs in diagnostics and therapeutics.
Main Results:
- Apoptotic bodies (ABs) inherit properties from parent cells, offering stability and rich biomolecular cargo.
- Their surface characteristics and size facilitate recipient cell recognition and interaction.
- ABs demonstrate potential in modulating disease symptoms due to their biocompatibility and origin.
Conclusions:
- Apoptotic bodies (ABs) represent a versatile platform for biomedical applications, including diagnostics, immunotherapy, regenerative medicine, and drug delivery.
- Further research into AB-based strategies is crucial for advancing their clinical translation.
- ABs hold significant promise for future innovations in personalized medicine and disease management.
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