Basics of Extracellular Vesicles from Coursera

This course aims to provide the basic knowledge about extracellular vesicles (EV) a generic term including exosomes, microvesicles, microparticles, ectosomes, oncosomes, prostasomes, and many others. It covers areas such as EV history, nomenclature, biogenesis, EV cargo as well as the release and uptake mechanisms, collection and processing prior to isolation, different isolation methods, characterization and quantification techniques.

This course is divided into five modules. Module 1 is an introduction to the field and will cover the nomenclature and the history of EVs. Module 2 will focus on the biogenesis, release and uptake mechanisms of EVs as well as the different EV cargos (RNA, protein, lipids). In Module 3, we will focus on the collection and processing of cell culture media and body fluids such as blood, breast milk, cerebrospinal fluid and urine prior to isolation of EVs. Module 4 and 5 will present different isolation methods and characterization/quantification techniques, respectively. Here differential ultracentrifugation, size exclusion chromatography, density gradient, kit based precipitation, electron microscopy (EM), cryo-TEM, flow cytometry, atomic-force microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis will be presented.

The recommended prerequisites are college-freshman-level biology and biochemistry.

After a completed course you should be able to:

+ Discuss the nomenclature and subgroups of extracellular vesicles.

+ Describe the RNA, protein and lipid content of extracellular vesicles.

+ Describe the basic concepts about the most common isolation and characterization techniques and how these techniques are used in the EV field.

+ State the benefits and limitations of the most common isolation and characterization techniques for extracellular vesicles. + Explain the considerations that are important during the collection and isolation of EVs from different body fluid.

+ Describe the release and uptake mechanisms of extracellular vesicles

All lectures are given in English.

Each of the five modules will be followed by an exam. All exams will be in the format of multiple choice questions.

The course is organized in collaboration between the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV), University of California Irvine (USA), University of Gothenburg (Sweden) and Pohang University of Science and Technology (South Korea).

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the Course and the Field of Extracellular Vesicles

In this module, we will introduce the course and the field of extracellular vesicles. We will discuss the nomenclature and the history of extracellular vesicles as well as the organisms and places that have been shown to release/contain extracellular vesicles.

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Taught by Cecilia Lasser and other instructors from University of California Irvine, University of Gothenburg, and Pohang University of Science and Technology, who are recognized for their work in extracellular vesicles

Builds a strong foundation for beginners about extracellular vesicles, covering their history, types, biogenesis and uptake mechanisms

Examines the biogenesis, release and uptake mechanisms of extracellular vesicles, which is highly relevant to understanding their role in intercellular communication

Develops a foundational understanding of how to collect and process body fluids for extracellular vesicle isolation

Taught by the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles, who are recognized for their work in the field

Explores the use of various isolation methods for extracellular vesicles, a key aspect in research and clinical applications

Reviews summary

Foundational course on extracellular vesicles

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive and comprehensive introduction to extracellular vesicles, covering essential topics from nomenclature and biogenesis to isolation and characterization techniques. Students frequently highlight the course's ability to provide a solid foundational understanding for anyone entering or working within the EV field. The lectures are often praised for their clarity and detailed explanations of complex scientific concepts, making the material accessible even with the prerequisite scientific background. While some learners note the paced content requires diligence, the overall consensus is that the course successfully equips them with relevant knowledge for research and laboratory applications.

Content is dense; some desire more advanced detail.

"The course moves at a fairly rapid pace, so staying on top of the material is essential, especially the technical sections."

"While comprehensive for basics, I felt some specific characterization techniques could have been explored in greater depth."

"As an intermediate learner, I hoped for more advanced troubleshooting tips for certain isolation methods."

Well-organized modules with reinforcing exams.

"The five-module structure with an exam after each helped me consolidate my learning effectively."

"The multiple-choice questions were fair and primarily tested understanding of the key concepts presented in the lectures."

"I found the overall organization of topics, from introduction to techniques, very logical and easy to follow."

Complex EV concepts made understandable.

"The instructors did an excellent job explaining complex concepts in a way that was easy to grasp for someone relatively new to EVs."

"I appreciated how the course broke down the various EV subgroups and their biogenesis with clear visuals and examples."

"Even with my existing background in biology, I found the explanations here very helpful in solidifying my understanding."

Highly applicable for laboratory and research work.

"The modules on isolation and characterization techniques are incredibly useful for anyone working in an EV research lab."

"I can immediately apply the knowledge gained about sample collection and processing to my ongoing experiments."

"This course is a must-take for researchers looking to get into or deepen their understanding of EV methodologies."

Provides broad, essential knowledge of EVs.

"This course offers a fantastic overview of extracellular vesicles, covering everything from basic nomenclature to advanced isolation methods."

"I found it to be a very comprehensive introduction that sets a strong baseline for further study in the EV field."

"It thoroughly explains EV biogenesis, cargo, and key techniques like NTA and electron microscopy."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Basics of Extracellular Vesicles with these activities:

Isolate and Identify Extracellular Vesicles

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Helps you apply and integrate the concepts of EV isolation and identification by carrying out a practical experiment.

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Select a suitable source material for EV isolation (e.g., cell culture supernatant, blood, urine).
Choose appropriate EV isolation methods and optimize the isolation protocol.
Characterize the isolated EVs using techniques like nanoparticle tracking analysis and Western blotting.

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Career center

Learners who complete Basics of Extracellular Vesicles will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Laboratory Manager

Laboratory Managers oversee the daily operations of research laboratories, ensuring that experiments are conducted efficiently and safely. A comprehensive understanding of extracellular vesicles, as provided by this course, is essential for Laboratory Managers to effectively manage EV-related research projects. They can use this knowledge to optimize laboratory protocols, troubleshoot experiments, and ensure the quality and integrity of EV samples.

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Research Associate

Research Associates in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies play a critical role in advancing scientific research and drug development. This course provides a solid foundation in extracellular vesicles, enabling Research Associates to contribute more effectively to projects involving EV isolation, characterization, and analysis. They can use this knowledge to design and execute experiments, interpret data, and develop new strategies for EV-based therapies.

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Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers design and develop medical devices and technologies. With the knowledge gained from this course, Biomedical Engineers can gain a deeper understanding of extracellular vesicles and their potential applications in diagnostics and therapeutics. This can help them to design more effective and targeted devices for EV detection, isolation, and analysis.

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Medical Science Liaison

Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) apply their scientific knowledge to act as a vital link between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers. They may work in a particular therapeutic area, such as oncology or immunology, and must be familiar with the latest research and clinical data. With the knowledge gained from this course, MSLs can deepen their understanding of extracellular vesicles and their role in disease. This can help them to better communicate the potential applications of new treatments and therapies to healthcare providers.

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Clinical Research Coordinator

Clinical Research Coordinators assist in the design and implementation of clinical trials. This course can provide them with a strong foundation in extracellular vesicles, enabling them to better understand the role of EVs in disease and the development of new treatments. This knowledge can help them to effectively manage clinical trial protocols, recruit and enroll patients, and collect and analyze data related to EVs.

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Biostatistician

Biostatisticians apply statistical methods to analyze and interpret data in biomedical research. This course can provide Biostatisticians with a foundation in extracellular vesicle research, enabling them to design and analyze studies involving EV isolation, characterization, and quantification. They can use this knowledge to develop statistical models, analyze data, and draw meaningful conclusions about the role of EVs in health and disease.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to a wider audience. This course can provide Science Writers with a comprehensive understanding of extracellular vesicles, enabling them to effectively write and report on the latest advancements in EV research. They can use this knowledge to create engaging and informative articles, blog posts, and other content that helps to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the importance of EVs.

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Patent Attorney

Patent Attorneys specialize in the legal protection of inventions and discoveries. This course can provide Patent Attorneys with a foundation in extracellular vesicle technology, enabling them to better understand the patenting process and represent clients in this emerging field. They can use this knowledge to draft and file patents, negotiate licensing agreements, and provide legal advice to companies and researchers working in the field of EV research.

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Healthcare Consultant

Healthcare Consultants provide advice and guidance to healthcare organizations on a variety of topics, including strategy, operations, and technology. This course can provide Healthcare Consultants with a comprehensive understanding of extracellular vesicles, enabling them to better understand the potential applications of EVs in healthcare and advise their clients on how to leverage this technology to improve patient care.

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Venture Capitalist

Venture Capitalists invest in early-stage companies with high growth potential. This course can provide Venture Capitalists with a foundation in extracellular vesicle technology, enabling them to better evaluate investment opportunities in this emerging field. They can use this knowledge to identify promising companies, conduct due diligence, and make informed investment decisions.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the development, launch, and marketing of new products. This course can provide Product Managers with a comprehensive understanding of extracellular vesicles, enabling them to better understand the market for EV-based products and develop strategies for successful product launches. They can use this knowledge to identify customer needs, define product features, and create marketing campaigns that effectively reach target audiences.

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Business Development Manager

Business Development Managers are responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities. This course can provide Business Development Managers with a foundation in extracellular vesicle technology, enabling them to better understand the potential applications of EVs in various industries and identify new markets for EV-based products and services. They can use this knowledge to develop partnerships, negotiate contracts, and drive business growth.

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Sales Representative

Sales Representatives are responsible for selling products and services to customers. This course can provide Sales Representatives with a comprehensive understanding of extracellular vesicles, enabling them to better understand the benefits and applications of EV-based products and services. They can use this knowledge to effectively communicate the value proposition of these products and services to potential customers and close deals.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote products and services. This course can provide Marketing Managers with a foundation in extracellular vesicle technology, enabling them to better understand the target market for EV-based products and services and develop effective marketing campaigns. They can use this knowledge to create brand awareness, generate leads, and drive sales.

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Public relations manager

Public Relations Managers are responsible for managing the public image of organizations and individuals. This course can provide Public Relations Managers with a foundation in extracellular vesicle technology, enabling them to better understand the potential impact of EV research on public opinion and develop effective communication strategies. They can use this knowledge to build relationships with the media, manage crises, and promote a positive image of EV research and its applications.

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Basics of Extracellular Vesicles

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Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Foundational course on extracellular vesicles

Activities

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