Specific RNA sequences dictate whether microRNAs are released or retained within cells
In short: Researchers have discovered that microRNAs contain specific sequences that determine their fate. These sequences, termed EXOmotifs and CELLmotifs, control whether a microRNA is packaged into small extracellular vesicles for long-distance communication or kept inside the cell that produced it. This discovery suggests that the specific profile of microRNAs found in a cell's vesicles can reveal which tissue they originated from.
The study demonstrated that altering these motifs can change how much microRNA is secreted or retained. Researchers identified that RNA-binding proteins, such as Alyref and Fus, are involved in exporting miRNAs with the strong EXOmotif CGGGAG. While these findings offer a way to improve RNA-based therapies by targeting specific tissues, the study focuses on the fundamental mechanisms of sorting rather than clinical application.
Why it matters: understanding these RNA sequences could help scientists link circulating microRNAs to their tissue of origin and improve RNA therapies.
Why it matters: A hidden sequence code lets cells control which microRNAs they export, pointing to new ways to target RNA-based therapies.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Research: Garcia et al. (2022). MicroRNA sequence codes for small extracellular vesicle release and cellular retention. Nature.
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