Ligand-based Exosome Affinity Purification (LEAP) Column Chromatography: A Tool for Clinical Applications

Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles that play essential roles in intercellular communication, carrying biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, and RNAs that can influence physiological and pathological processes. The isolation of pure exosomes is critical for both basic research and clinical applications, including diagnostics and therapeutics. Traditional exosome isolation techniques, such as ultracentrifugation, lack specificity and may yield impure samples, making the need for advanced isolation techniques evident. Ligand-based exosome affinity purification (LEAP) column chromatography has emerged as a novel method that utilizes specific ligands targeting exosome surface markers, providing a highly specific, gentle, and scalable approach to exosome isolation. This mini review explores LEAP chromatography’s mechanism, benefits, and potential for clinical applications, emphasizing its g.rowing importance in exosome-based diagnostics and therapies.