Cx43-mediated sorting of miRNAs into extracellular vesicles

ABSTRACT: Through the exchange of lipids, proteins and nucleic acids, extracellular vesicles (EV) allow for cell-cell communication across distant cells and tissues to regulate a wide range of physiological and pathological processes. Although some molecular mediators have been discovered, the mechanisms underlying the selective sorting of miRNAs into EV remain elusive. Previous studies demonstrated that connexin43 (Cx43) forms functional channels at the EV surface, mediating the communication with recipient cells. Here we show that Cx43 participates in the selective sorting of miRNAs into EV through a process that can also involve RNA-binding proteins. We provide evidence that Cx43 can directly bind to specific miRNAs, namely those containing stable secondary structure elements, including miR-133b.

SUBMITTER: Dr. Tânia Martins-Marques 

PROVIDER: S-SCDT-EMBOR-2021-54312V1P | biostudies-other |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other