Extracellular RNA

Extracellular RNA Latest News

Recently, scientists reported that extracellular RNA (exRNA) from bacteria can persist in disinfected drinking water. 

About Extracellular RNA

• The exRNA is RNA that exists outside cells.
• It is found in body fluids such as blood, saliva, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. 
• To survive outside the cell, exRNA travels in its own molecular containers that prevent enzymes from breaking it down before it reaches its destination.
• These are heterogeneous populations including small (e.g., miRNA) and long non-coding RNAs and coding RNAs (e.g., mRNA).
• Functions: It has been found to be part of a sophisticated long-distance communication system, allowing cells to deliver instructions to other cells, influencing behavior and gene activation.
• It helps coordinate responses in the immune system, tissue repair, and development.
• Medical significance
  • It enables diagnosis of diseases like cancer and heart disease through RNA pattern testing in body fluids
  • It has potential for early detection and monitoring.

Source: TH

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