Document Type : Review article
Authors
1
Cancer Epidemiology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
2
Toxicology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
3
Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, New Health Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
4
Department of Food Science and Technology, ShK.C., Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran.
5
Infectious Diseases Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. & Medical Biotechnology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Exosomes are nanosized extracellular vesicles (EVs) (30–150 nm) secreted by virtually all cell types, acting as natural carriers of biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, to mediate intercellular communication. They participate in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes such as immune modulation, angiogenesis, tissue regeneration, tumor progression, infection propagation, and metabolic regulation. Their intrinsic biocompatibility, stability in biological fluids, and ability to cross biological barriers make them promising tools for diagnostics, targeted drug delivery, and regenerative medicine. The present study systematically reviews biological characteristics and functional roles of exosomes, emphasizing their dual behavior in health and disease. It further evaluates current and emerging methodologies for exosome isolation and purification, including conventional ultracentrifugation, size‑exclusion chromatography (SEC), filtration, precipitation, and immunoaffinity approaches, as well as advanced microfluidic and hybrid multimodal systems. Particular attention is given to new commercial and integrated platforms combining tangential flow filtration (TFF) and SEC modules for good manufacturing practice (GMP)–compatible exosome production. Despite considerable progress, challenges remain regarding heterogeneity, yield optimization, and preservation of biological activity. Understanding how isolation methods influence exosome quality and functionality is essential for their safe and standardized clinical translation. This review highlights the need for integrated, high‑purity, and reproducible workflows guided by the latest MISEV recommendations to unlock the full therapeutic and diagnostic potential of exosomes.
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