Exosomal Micro-RNAs as Intercellular Communicators in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Abstract

Communication between neighboring or distant cells is made through a complex network that includes extracellular vesicles (EVs). Exosomes, which are a subgroup of EVs, are released from most cell types and have been found in biological fluids such as urine, plasma, and airway secretions like bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), nasal lavage, saliva, and sputum. Mainly, the cargo exosomes are enriched with mRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs), which can be transferred to a recipient cell consequently modifying and redirecting its biological function. The effects of miRNAs derive from their role as gene expression regulators by repressing or degrading their target mRNAs. Nowadays, various types of research are focused on evaluating the potential of exosomal miRNAs as biomarkers for the prognosis and diagnosis of different pathologies. Nevertheless, there are few reports on their role in the pathophysiology of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a chronic lung disease characterized by progressive lung scarring with no cure. In this review, we focus on the role and effect of exosomal miRNAs as intercellular communicators in the onset and progression of IPF, as well as discussing their potential utility as therapeutic agents for the treatment of this disease.

Immune Mechanisms of Pulmonary Fibrosis with Bleomycin

“…Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs), and they are an important point of discussion in the field of EV research. They are nanoscale vesicles secreted by cells under physiological or pathological conditions [ 293 , 294 , 295 , 296 ]. The function of exosomes as important mediators of intercellular signaling depends on their loading profiles.…”

Biomarkers in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: Current insight and future direction

“… 90 , 91 In IPF, circulating exosomes and EVs display unique miRNA, messenger RNA (mRNA), and protein profiles linked with fibrosis and inflammation. 92 , 93 Analysis of the molecular cargo within these vesicles can offer valuable insights into disease activity and progression.…”

Progress in understanding and treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: recent insights and emerging therapies

“…Exosomes are phospholipid bilayer membranous vesicles, measuring between 30 and 150 nm ( Negrete-Garcia et al, 2022 ). Continuously secreted by a variety of cell types, they transport biologically active substances such as proteins, lipids, and genetic material (DNA, mRNA, miRNAs, and lncRNAs) ( Yang et al, 2022 ).…”