Adipocytes have been identified as a source of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which have, in turn, been connected to obesity-mediated cardiovascular disease. But these vesicles have not been well studied, particularly pre- and post-adipogenesis. Researchers at Cardiff University (UK) set out to characterize these EVs to assess their structure, composition, and function. 3T3-L1 cells were used to harvest EVs which were then characterized via electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and 2D chromatography. The Cellometer and Trypan Blue established cell counts throughout experimentation. Before adipogenesis, EVs display “classic” morphology, but the number of EVs rise just before adipogenesis and are enriched with signaling fatty acids. Gaining more insight into the structure and function of EVs holds great promise for cell signaling pathways throughout the body.

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