Taylor dispersion analysis (TDA) is an interesting tool for nanoparticle (NP) size determination, feasible using simple capillary electrophoresis apparatus. Based upon the radial diffusion of analytes upon a laminar stream, the diffusion coefficient of species is easily estimable. Moreover, TDA is generally more adequate than conventional dynamic light scattering methodologies as it is less dependent on the polydispersity of the sample, leading to accurate measurement and reliable results. This review provides every paper mentioning the use of TDA for metallic-based NPs size determination. Diverse strategies for the detection of metallic NPs (like UV-visible and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry - ICP-MS - for instance) and interpretation of the Taylorgrams are discussed. Based upon the literature, advices on future prospects are also indicated, especially for the comparison of TDA results with other classical techniques.

Amelognein protein plays a vital role in the formation and mineralization of enamel matrix. Amelogenin structure is complex in nature and researchers have studied it with different experimental techniques. Considering its important role, there is a need to understand this important protein, which has been discussed in detail in this review. In addition, various experimental techniques to study amelogenin protein used previously have been tackled along with their advantages and disadvantages. A selection of 67 relevant articles/book chapters was included in this study. The review concluded that amelogenins act as nanospheres or spacers for the growth of enamel crystals. Various experimental techniques can be used to study amelogenins, however, their advantages and drawbacks should be kept in mind before performing analysis.

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that contain a specific composition of proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA. They are derived from endocytic membranes and can transfer signals to recipient cells, thus mediating a novel mechanism of cell-to-cell communication. They are also thought to be involved in cellular waste disposal. Exosomes play significant roles in various biological functions, including the transfer of biomolecules such as RNA, proteins, enzymes, and lipids and the regulation of numerous physiological and pathological processes in various diseases. Because of these properties, they are considered to be promising biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of various diseases and may contribute to the development of minimally invasive diagnostics and next generation therapies. The biocompatible nature of exosomes could enhance the stability and efficacy of imaging probes and therapeutics. Due to their potential use in clinical applications, exosomes have attracted much research attention on their roles in health and disease. To explore the use of exosomes in the biomedical arena, it is essential that the basic molecular mechanisms behind the transport and function of these vesicles are well-understood. Herein, we discuss the history, biogenesis, release, isolation, characterization, and biological functions of exosomes, as well as the factors influencing their biogenesis and their technical and biological challenges. We conclude this review with a discussion on the future perspectives of exosomes.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized as messengers delivering various active molecules between cells. This feature of EVs drew the attention of clinicians as well as researchers from different fields. However, exciting ideas to employ EVs as means of drug delivery or to test them as biomarkers of cellular status require very thoughtful and attentive approaches to the selection of analytical techniques for EV characterization. Optical and surface plasmonic analytical methods offer a researcher an invaluable opportunity to use already sized and/or quantified EVs in further functional cell-based assays and in focused biochemical tests (nucleic acid and protein arrays, etc.). Moreover, a high sensitivity and relative flexibility of surface plasmonic sensors open a possibility to develop instruments performing quantitative, metrical and EV surface/content analysis in a single device. This review aims to consider the applicability of established and modern optical techniques as well as novel surface plasmonic approaches for different aspects of EV analysis.