No abstract

The magnetic label did not affect the physiological characteristics of the cells and did not change identity, purity and potency (therapeutic effect in vivo) of EVs. MRI phantom studies confirmed the in vitro/ex vivo detectability of labeled-EVs. Importantly, as expected MRI studies showed that EV homing to the kidney injected intra-cardiacally into Alport mice was more efficient vs the retro-orbital route, and Prussian blue staining of sections confirmed EV homing to the kidney.CONCLUSIONS: We have developed a clinically applicable novel magnetic nanoparticle agent that can be used to label and track the biodistribution of EVs in the kidney and other organs using noninvasive, safe, and effective MRI technology that's widely available. This technology is highly adaptable and can be deployed in both preclinical and clinical settings.