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Updated: Jun 26, 2025

Evaluation of the Storage Stability of Extracellular Vesicles
Published on: May 22, 2019
Extracellular Vesicles in Pathophysiology: A Prudent Target That Requires Careful Consideration
Sanjay Shahi1, Taeyoung Kang1, Pamali Fonseka1
1Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia.
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial for normal physiology, aiding tissue repair and development. Understanding their physiological roles can improve the clinical use of EVs in therapies.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
Background:
- Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-released particles with diverse biological functions.
- Research has focused on EVs' role in disease, often overlooking their physiological importance.
- EVs are implicated in tissue repair, development, and aging through intercellular communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the essential role of EVs in maintaining cellular homeostasis under physiological conditions.
- To discuss the potential of EVs as therapeutic delivery vehicles.
- To identify challenges hindering the clinical efficacy of EV-based therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing literature on extracellular vesicles.
- It examines the physiological functions of EVs.
- It analyzes the therapeutic potential and challenges of EVs.
Main Results:
- EVs play a critical role in intercellular communication and maintaining physiological balance.
- EVs are recognized for their therapeutic potential, particularly as delivery vehicles.
- Challenges such as off-target effects limit the clinical application of EV therapies.
Conclusions:
- A deeper understanding of EV physiological functions is crucial for enhancing their therapeutic utility.
- Addressing challenges in EV-based therapeutics is necessary for successful clinical translation.
- EVs are vital for normal cellular function and hold promise for future medical applications.
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