At Acytronix, we are committed to advancing extracellular vesicle (EV) research by providing innovative solutions for rapid purification and analysis. In collaboration with Wyatt Technology, we have developed a streamlined workflow that enables the purification and characterization of EVs in under 10 minutes. Our portable microstructured electrochemical device (PMED), when paired with Wyatt’s DynaPro™ NanoStar™ or ZetaStar™ instruments, offers an efficient and non-destructive approach to EV analysis.
The Importance of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) in Research
Extracellular vesicles are secreted by most cell types and play a vital role in intercellular communication by transporting proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These vesicles have significant diagnostic potential, serving as non-invasive biomarkers for diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular conditions. However, the conventional purification of EVs from physiological fluids such as urine, plasma, serum, milk, and cell culture medium remains challenging. Traditional methods often involve multiple steps, require specialized equipment, and demand skilled operators, leading to low yield, reduced purity, and compromised sample integrity.
Beyond purification, the analysis of EVs poses additional challenges, particularly when dealing with limited biological samples. Plasma samples, for example, are often scarce and irreplaceable. Existing quantification and characterization techniques consume significant amounts of these valuable samples, further restricting their availability for downstream applications.
Acytronix PMED and DynaPro NanoStar™: A Complete Workflow
To address these challenges, Acytronix has developed the PMED, a cutting-edge device designed for the rapid and efficient purification of EVs from physiological fluids. When used in combination with Wyatt Technology’s DynaPro NanoStar DLS instrument, researchers can achieve EV capture, release, and non-destructive characterization in under 10 minutes.
EVs Purification and Analysis Workflow
- EV Capture: The sample, such as plasma, is injected into the PMED separating cartridge, where targeted antibodies capture specific EV subtypes.
- Quick Rinse & Release: The cartridge is briefly rinsed, and an electrical current triggers the release of EVs directly into a buffer or water.
- Non-Destructive Analysis: The purified EVs are transferred into a cuvette for rapid size and distribution measurements using the DynaPro NanoStar DLS instrument.
Advantages of the Acytronix PMED with Wyatt’s DynaPro NanoStar™
- Targeted Purification: The PMED device uses antibody-based capture (Anti-CD9 for general EVs, Anti-CD63 for exosome-related EVs, and Anti-CD73 for regenerative EVs), ensuring specificity.
- Electric Current-Induced Release: A unique mechanism enables EVs to be released directly into the desired buffer, eliminating lengthy buffer exchange steps.
- Minimal Sample Consumption: The DynaPro NanoStar requires as little as 2 µL for measurements, preserving valuable biological samples for further analysis.
- User-Friendly & Fast: The DynaPro NanoStar features intuitive touchscreen operation with the DYNAMICS™ Touch™ software, enabling walk-up measurements with results in less than 30 seconds.
- Broad Biofluid Compatibility: The workflow is optimized for various biofluids, making it a versatile tool for biological and medical research.
By integrating our PMED technology with Wyatt Technology’s state-of-the-art DLS instruments, Acytronix is revolutionizing the field of EV purification and analysis. Researchers can now obtain high-quality EVs and precise characterization in a fraction of the time required by conventional methods. This groundbreaking approach not only accelerates research but also enhances the reliability and reproducibility of EV-based studies.
For a demonstration of this complete workflow using the DynaPro NanoStar, visit: link
