Abstract
It has long been known that microRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate target gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Recent studies, however, have revealed that miRNAs can also be transported from donor cells to recipient cells, in which these RNAs function in a novel manner as ligands of Toll-like receptors. Here, we review the latest findings on these unconventional miRNAs, with special emphasis on their biological significance.
Keywords:
Toll-like receptor; exosome; ligand; microRNA.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Biological Transport
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Exosomes / metabolism*
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Exosomes / pathology
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Humans
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Ligands
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Membrane Glycoproteins / metabolism
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Mice
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MicroRNAs / antagonists & inhibitors
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MicroRNAs / metabolism*
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MicroRNAs / pharmacology
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Neoplasms / metabolism
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Neoplasms / pathology
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Neurons / drug effects
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Neurons / metabolism
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Protein Binding
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RNA, Viral / metabolism
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Signal Transduction*
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Toll-Like Receptor 7 / metabolism
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Toll-Like Receptor 8 / metabolism*
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Viruses / genetics
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Viruses / pathogenicity
Substances
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Ligands
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Membrane Glycoproteins
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MicroRNAs
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RNA, Viral
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TLR8 protein, human
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Tlr7 protein, mouse
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Toll-Like Receptor 7
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Toll-Like Receptor 8
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mirnlet7 microRNA, human