Exosome-mediated transfer of mRNAs and microRNAs is a novel mechanism of genetic exchange between cells.

• Exosomes are vesicles of endocytic origin released by many cells. These vesicles can mediate communication between cells, facilitating processes such as antigen presentation. Here, we show that exosomes from a mouse and a human mast cell line (MC/9 and HMC-1, respectively), as well as primary bone marrow-derived mouse mast cells, contain RNA. Microarray assessments revealed the presence of mRNA from approximately 1300 genes, many of which are not present in the cytoplasm of the donor cell. In vitro translation proved that the exosome mRNAs were functional. Quality control RNA analysis of total RNA derived from exosomes also revealed presence of small RNAs, including microRNAs. The RNA from mast cell exosomes is transferable to other mouse and human mast cells. After transfer of mouse exosomal RNA to human mast cells, new mouse proteins were found in the recipient cells, indicating that transferred exosomal mRNA can be translated after entering another cell. In summary, we show that exosomes contain both mRNA and microRNA, which can be delivered to another cell, and can be functional in this new location. We propose that this RNA is called "exosomal shuttle RNA" (esRNA).

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Medicinska och farmaceutiska grundvetenskaper -- Cell- och molekylärbiologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Basic Medicine -- Cell and Molecular Biology (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Animals

Cell Communication

genetics

Cell Line

Epigenesis

Genetic

genetics

Exocytosis

genetics

Gene Expression Regulation

genetics

Humans

Mast Cells

metabolism

ultrastructure

Mice

MicroRNAs

genetics

metabolism

Protein Biosynthesis

genetics

RNA

Messenger

genetics

metabolism

Transport Vesicles

genetics

metabolism

ultrastructure

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)