Standardization in EV and exRNA Research: MISEV and Beyond

Abstract
Rapidly growing interests in physiologic and pathologic processes associated with extracellular vesicles (EVs), including presumed functions of various EV RNA molecules, have created a need for standardization initiatives to shape and guide the field. As an example, the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) first published the Minimal Information for Studies of Extracellular Vesicles (“MISEV”) in 2014 to call attention to rigorous EV characterization approaches and experimental controls. In this presentation, I review recent developments in EV and exRNA standardization, focusing especially on the “MISEV2018” guidelines in the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles. These guidelines were prepared with methods for broad community input and buy-in that may serve as a model for ongoing and future initiatives. We will discuss outstanding needs in the field and what might be done to address them.