How it work
Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) is a chromatographic technique primarily designed for the separation of molecules based on their size. While SEC is widely used for the analysis of macromolecules, it may not be the method of choice for the isolation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) due to the relatively small size of EVs. However, some modifications can be applied to make SEC more suitable for EV isolation:
Sample Preparation
Buffer Selection
Column Calibration
Sample Loading
Elution and Collection
Characterization
It's important to note that while SEC can be adapted for EV isolation, there are dedicated methods such as ultracentrifugation, density gradient centrifugation, and commercial kits specifically designed for efficient EV isolation. Researchers should carefully choose the method based on their specific requirements and the nature of the sample. Additionally, maintaining the integrity of extracellular vesicles during the isolation process is crucial for accurate downstream analysis.