Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membraneous vesicles released by a variety of cells into the extracellular microenvironment. Based on the mode of biogenesis, EVs can be classified into three broad classes (i), ectosomes or shedding microvesicles (ii), exosomes and (iii), apoptotic bodies. Recent studies have ignited significant interest on EVs by elucidating their role in intercellular communication, pathogenesis, drug, vaccine and gene-vector delivery and as possible reservoirs of biomarkers. With such immense interest, the amount of data generated has increased exponentially. Here, we describe Vesiclepedia, a manually curated compendium of molecular data (lipid, RNA and protein) identified in different classes of EVs. Currently, Vesiclepedia comprises 35,264 protein, 18,718 mRNA, 1,772 miRNA and 342 lipid entries encompassed from 341 independent studies that were published over the past several years. Even though databases are indispensable resources for the scientific community, recent studies have shown that more than 50% of the databases are not updated for a long time. In addition, more than 20% of the database links are not active after its initial publication. To prevent such database decay and keep them updated, for the first time, we have initiated a ‘continuous community annotation project with the active involvement of the EV researchers’ with long standing (> 10 years) and newly found reputation in the field. The principal investigators working on EVs have vowed to contribute data generated by their group in a regular and continuous fashion making this effort significantly unique. By undertaking such initiatives, we foresee the EV research community as trendsetters in data sharing. We expect, Vesiclepedia to evolve as a primary resource for EV research.
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