Detection and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles in Sputum Samples of COPD Patients.

EVs were detectable in both the COPD and healthy individuals' sputum. The ratio of EVs in the 150-200 nm range was twice as high in the COPD patients than in the controls. The COPD patients' sputum contained increased total EV-associated protein as compared to controls, highlighting their value as a new source of specific exoproteins.