Argonaute 2 in cell-secreted microvesicles guides the function of secreted miRNAs in recipient cells.

ABSTRACT: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) secreted by cells into microvesicles (MVs) form a novel class of signal molecules that mediate intercellular communication. However, several fundamental aspects of secreted miRNAs remain unknown, particularly the mechanism that governs the function or fate of exogenous miRNAs in recipient cells. In the present study, we provide evidence indicating that Argonaute 2 (Ago2) plays a role in stabilizing miRNAs and facilitating the packaging of secreted miRNAs into MVs. More importantly, Ago2 in origin cell-secreted MVs (but not in recipient cells) directs the function of secreted miRNAs. First, Ago2 overexpression clearly increased the level of miR-16 in cells transfected with a miR-16 mimic by protecting the miRNAs from degradation in lysosomes. Second, Ago2 overexpression i

SUBMITTER: Lv Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4114802 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature