Exosome Characterization by Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis

Much interest centers around microvesicles and nanovesicles (exosomes) as they are increasingly cited as potential biomarkers. To date, exosomes research has been constrained by a lack of suitable methods of characterization. Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) addresses this need, allowing exosomes and microvesicles in the range of 30 – 1000 nm in liquid suspension to be directly and individually visualised in real-time. Thus, NTA provides high-resolution particle size distribution profiles and concentration measurements. The technique is fast, robust, accurate and cost effective, representing an attractive alternative or complement to existing methods. Specific exosomes can be imaged and characterized through suitable labeling with a fluorescent marker with a range of excitation wavelengths available.