A research team led by Gil Westmeyer at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has developed a method that allows scientists to analyze gene expression without destroying cells. Traditional transcriptome analysis requires cell lysis, preventing repeated measurements on the same cells. The newly introduced approach, called Non-destructive Transcriptomics via Vesicular Export (NTVE), overcomes this limitation by enabling ongoing monitoring of living cells.
The method, described recently in Nature Communications, uses virus-like particles to transport messenger RNA (mRNA), which reflects active gene expression, out of cells. These particles carry the RNA into small vesicles outside the cell, where it can be collected and analyzed. By examining this exported RNA, researchers can determine which genes are active at a given time without disrupting the cell itself.
Results obtained using NTVE closely match those from conventional transcriptome analysis methods. However, unlike standard techniques, this approach preserves the cells, making it possible to perform repeated measurements over extended periods. This enables researchers to follow dynamic biological processes in real time.
One key application of the method is tracking how stem cells develop into specialized cell types. For example, it allows detailed observation of differentiation into cardiomyocytes or germ layers over several days. The method has also been shown to work in neurons and mixed cell populations, supporting studies of interactions between different cell types.
Prof. Westmeyer highlighted the broader implications of the approach: "This method provides biomedical research with a powerful new tool. We will gain day-by-day insights into the maturation and functionality of stem cells. This could make future cell therapies more precise and effective."
First author Niklas Armbrust noted additional possibilities: "Our new method also makes it possible to genetically prepare cells for implantation into tissue. In addition, NTVE can potentially be used for long-term analysis of organoids as well as for further research into tumors and their intercellular communication."
Publication details: Armbrust, N., Grosshauser, M., Geilenkeuser, J. et al. Non-destructive transcriptomics via vesicular export. Nat Commun 17, 3812 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-72072-w
The method, described recently in Nature Communications, uses virus-like particles to transport messenger RNA (mRNA), which reflects active gene expression, out of cells. These particles carry the RNA into small vesicles outside the cell, where it can be collected and analyzed. By examining this exported RNA, researchers can determine which genes are active at a given time without disrupting the cell itself.
Results obtained using NTVE closely match those from conventional transcriptome analysis methods. However, unlike standard techniques, this approach preserves the cells, making it possible to perform repeated measurements over extended periods. This enables researchers to follow dynamic biological processes in real time.
One key application of the method is tracking how stem cells develop into specialized cell types. For example, it allows detailed observation of differentiation into cardiomyocytes or germ layers over several days. The method has also been shown to work in neurons and mixed cell populations, supporting studies of interactions between different cell types.
Prof. Westmeyer highlighted the broader implications of the approach: "This method provides biomedical research with a powerful new tool. We will gain day-by-day insights into the maturation and functionality of stem cells. This could make future cell therapies more precise and effective."
First author Niklas Armbrust noted additional possibilities: "Our new method also makes it possible to genetically prepare cells for implantation into tissue. In addition, NTVE can potentially be used for long-term analysis of organoids as well as for further research into tumors and their intercellular communication."
Publication details: Armbrust, N., Grosshauser, M., Geilenkeuser, J. et al. Non-destructive transcriptomics via vesicular export. Nat Commun 17, 3812 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-72072-w