Matrix Bound Nanovesicles: What are they and what do they do?

Over the past 50 years, several different types of extracellular vesicles have been discovered including: exosomes, microvesicles, and matrix vesicles. These vesicles are secreted by cells for specific purposes and contain cargo such as micro-RNA, cytokines, and lipids. A novel extracellular vesicle, the matrix bound nanovesicle (MBV), has been recently discovered. The MBV is similar to the microvesicle however, it is attached to the extracellular matrix, instead of being secreted. This review compares MBVs to other types of extracellular vesicles to try and better understand their origin and function. Further, this review will explain various extracellular vesicles isolation methods and how these can be used for MBVs and summarize characterization of MBV cargo such as micro-RNA, proteins, and lipids. Lastly, we will summarize the effects of MBVs on cells. MBVs are a novel class of extracellular vesicles that hold great promise as a platform for delivery of targeted gene and drug therapeutics.
Source: Cells Tissues Organs - Category: Cytology Source Type: research