The role of exosomal shuttle RNA (esRNA) in cell-to-cell communication

Abstract

Cell-to-cell communication can occur in several ways, with or without cell contact. Exosomes play a role in one of the most recently discovered and versatile cell-to-cell communications, which do not require cell contact and that can act over long distances. The RNA content, mRNA and microRNA, is protected by the exosomes rigid membranes, which makes it possible for cells to communicate long-distance RNA messages via the circulation system. Their mRNA content differs substantially from their mother cell mRNA content, whereas their microRNA content seems to reflect their cellular origin more. This chapter reviews the role of exosomes in cell-to-cell communication and in particular the role of exosomal shuttle RNA (esRNA). This is a new and rapidly expanding field of research that has given cell-to-cell communication an increased complexity and that has great potential within both diagnostic and therapeutic applications.