Membrane vesicles nucleate mineralo-organic nanoparticles and induce carbonate apatite precipitation in human body fluids

Background: Membrane vesicles (MVs) released from various cells are associated with human diseases. Results: MVs isolated from human serum induce the formation of mineralo-organic nanoparticles in culture. Conclusion: MVs represent a nucleating factor that promotes the formation of mineralo-organic nanoparticles and the precipitation of mineral deposits in body fluids. Significance: The ectopic precipitation of carbonate apatite deposits in body fluids and tissues may be initiated in part by MVs.