Cell‐to‐cell communication: microRNAs as hormones. Issue 12 (26th October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bayraktar, Recep; Van Roosbroeck, Katrien; Calin, George A.
• Is Part Of: Molecular oncology. Volume 11:Issue 12(2017)
• Page Start: 1673
• Page End: 1686
• Publication Date: 2017-10-26
• Subjects: cell–cell communication -- circulating miRNAs -- exosomes -- extracellular vesicles -- microRNAs -- tumor microenvironment; Cancer -- Molecular aspects -- Periodicals; 616.994005
• DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12144
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1574-7891

Abstract

Abstract : Mammalian cells can release different types of extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies. Accumulating evidence suggests that EVs play a role in cell‐to‐cell communication within the tumor microenvironment. EVs' components, such as proteins, noncoding RNAs [microRNAs (miRNAs), and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs)], messenger RNAs (mRNAs), DNA, and lipids, can mediate paracrine signaling in the tumor microenvironment. Recently, miRNAs encapsulated in secreted EVs have been identified in the extracellular space. Mature miRNAs that participate in intercellular communication are released from most cells, often within EVs, and disseminate through the extracellular fluid to reach remote target cells, including tumor cells, whose phenotypes they can influence by regulating mRNA and protein expression either as tumor suppressors or as oncogenes, depending on their targets. In this review, we discuss the roles of miRNAs in intercellular communication, the biological function of extracellular miRNAs, and their potential applications for diagnosis and therapeutics. We will give examples of miRNAs that behave as hormones. Abstract : In this review, we discuss the role of miRNAs within intercellular communication, the biological function of extracellular miRNAs, and their potential applications for diagnosis and therapeutics. We will give examples of miRNAs that behave as hormones.