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Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Vrazov trg 2 Tel (IBK): +386-1-543-7640 |
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Laboratory for Extracellular Vesicle Research
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Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of spherical membrane-bound particles, which play a prominent role in intercellular communication. EVs can differ in their biogenesis, cell of origin, size, molecular composition (nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and metabolites), and biological role. All cells studied so far release EVs, which in vivo accumulate to high concentrations in all body fluids. EVs show great potential for human diagnostics and therapeutic applications. We are interested in advancing the knowledge of EVs in cell-pathogen communication, using HIV-human interaction as a model system. Our focus is on EVs released from cells expressing HIV-1 protein Nef (including in the context of HIV-1 infection) and their role in non-AIDS related conditions, by studying Nef-EV biogenesis, composition, targeting and functions. We are exploring the usage of Nef-EVs in HIV diagnostics and as a therapeutic target. We are also heavily involved in EV-biomarker studies and collaborate on this with several clinical partners. Our focus is on optimizing biobanking of biological samples and methodology for EV isolation, and on evaluating EV- protein, RNA, and DNA components as disease state read-outs. We are also dedicated to promoting EVs among wider research, medical and lay community, through our involvement in teaching activities, workshops, EV-training programs, and local (SiN-EV) and international (ISEV) scientific organizations on EVs.
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