Abstract
Cellular genetic materials, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), mRNAs and proteins, are packaged inside exosomes, small membrane vesicles of endocytic origin that are released into the extracellular environment. These cellular genetic materials can be delivered into recipient cells, where they exert their respective biological effects. However, the miRNA profiles and biological functions of exosomes secreted by cancer cells remain unknown. The present study explored the miRNA expression profile and distribution characteristics of exosomes derived from human esophageal cancer cells through Solexa high-throughput sequencing. Results showed that 56,421 (2.94%) unique sequences in cells and 7727 (0.63%) in exosomes matched known miRNAs. A total of 342 and 48 known miRNAs were identified in cells and exosomes, respectively. Moreover, 64 and 32 novel miRNAs were predicted in cells and exosomes, respectively. Significant differences in miRNA expression profiles were found between human esophageal cancer cells and exosomes. These findings provided new insights into the characteristics of miRNAs in exosomes derived from human esophageal cancer cells and the specific roles of miRNAs in intercellular communication mediated by exosomes in esophageal cancer.
Highlights
Exosomes are small (40–100 nm) membrane vesicles that are derived from the invagination of endosomal compartments called multivesicular bodies and released into the extracellular environment by most cell types [1]
Characterization of Exosomes Released by Esophageal Cancer Cells
We developed a workflow for analyzing next-generation RNA sequencing of data that focus on miRNAs in human esophageal cancer cells and their corresponding exosomes
Summary
Exosomes are small (40–100 nm) membrane vesicles that are derived from the invagination of endosomal compartments called multivesicular bodies and released into the extracellular environment by most cell types [1]. MiRNA sequences are 19–25 nt long, the Solexa platform is apparently a suitable choice for miRNA discovery [23] This technology can be used to explore the specific miRNA expression and distribution characteristics in tumor-derived exosomes and to discover novel miRNAs [21]. Solexa high-throughput sequencing was used to explore the miRNA expression profile and distribution characteristics of exosomes derived from human esophageal cancer cells. We utilized the next-generation RNA sequencing technology to construct two small-RNA cDNA libraries from human esophageal cancer cells and esophageal cancer-derived exosomes. This technology can describe the expression of miRNAs in both intracellular and extracellular environments of esophageal cancer. We identified and profiled the RNA species present in exosomes and original cells; our results suggested that exosomal miRNAs can be used as potential esophageal cancer-specific biomarkers
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
