Biodistribution and function of extracellular miRNA-155 in mice

Sci Rep. 2015 May 29:5:10721. doi: 10.1038/srep10721.

Abstract

Circulating miRNAs can be found in extracellular vesicles (EV) and could be involved in intercellular communication. Here, we report the biodistribution of EV associated miR-155 using miR-155 KO mouse model. Administration of exosomes loaded with synthetic miR-155 mimic into miR-155 KO mice resulted in a rapid accumulation and clearance of miR-155 in the plasma with subsequent distribution in the liver, adipose tissue, lung, muscle and kidney (highest to lowest, respectively). miR-155 expression was detected in isolated hepatocytes and liver mononuclear cells of recipient KO mice suggesting its cellular uptake. In vitro, exosome-mediated restoration of miR-155 in Kupffer cells from miR-155 deficient mice augmented their LPS-induced MCP1 mRNA increase. The systemic delivery of wild type plasma to miR-155 KO mice also resulted in a rapid accumulation of miR-155 in the circulation and distribution to the liver and adipose tissue. In summary, our results demonstrate tissue biodistribution and biologic function of EV-associated miR-155.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Exosomes / metabolism
  • Extracellular Space / metabolism
  • Kupffer Cells / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • MicroRNAs / blood
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Tissue Distribution

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • Mirn155 microRNA, mouse