I-Corps: Translation potential of a platform for the isolation, visualization, and long-term storage of extracellular vesicles (EVs)

Award ID: 2627930

This I-Corps project is based on the development of a tool that simplifies the isolation, visualization, and long-term storage of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are nanoscale particles important for diagnostics, therapeutics, and biomarker discovery. Currently, the primary challenges for researchers and others working with EVs include isolating pure samples, standardizing methods, understanding EV variety, and scaling up production for human treatments. This technology addresses these challenges by providing efficient vesicle capture, a flat visualization surface for real time imaging and analysis, and an on chip fluidic chamber for extended sample storage in a single system. In addition, this technology is compatible with scalable manufacturing, customizable surface chemistry, and advanced imaging. This research and development tool may help to accelerate both investigation of EVs as well as the commercialization of EV-related products in diverse sectors including pharmaceutical and biotech, agricultural and environmental, and the food and beverage industry. This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of a scalable platform for the isolation, visualization, and long-term storage of extracellular vesicles (EVs). This platform combines a 3D micropillar array for efficient EV capture with a flat surface for visualization that allows real-time imaging characterization. The surface is functionalized with CD63-specific biotinylated aptamers, enabling highly selective EV binding and fluorescent labeling. The platform is manufactured using medical-grade resin and high-resolution printers, reducing cost and fabrication time compared to traditional methods. The surface can be customized to accommodate different geometries and EV sources. In addition, this platform also includes a 2 mL on-chip storage chamber, enabling long-term storage for downstream applications. Modular components can be commercialized individually or as an integrated workflow, which enables use across academic, clinical, pharmaceutical, biotechnological, agricultural, environmental, and cosmetic applications. By reducing costs and standardizing workflows, the technology may accelerate the translation of laboratory discoveries into clinical and commercial impact. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.

NSF Program Director: Ruth Shuman