Intercellular communication via transfer of proteins, RNAs, and microRNAs

Intercellular communication via transfer of proteins/RNAs/microRNAs" refers to the biological processes by which cells exchange information through the release and uptake of molecules such as proteins and various forms of RNA—including messenger RNA (mRNA) and microRNA—often packaged within extracellular vesicles like exosomes. These vesicles can be secreted into bodily fluids and taken up by other cells, allowing for regulation at distant sites. MicroRNAs transferred in this way can regulate gene expression in recipient cells by binding to target mRNAs and inducing translational repression or degradation. This form of cell-to-cell signaling plays critical roles in development, immune responses, tissue repair, cancer progression, cardiovascular health, and other physiological or pathological processes. However, "intercellular communication via transfer..." is not a discrete molecular target but rather describes a complex mechanism involving many different molecules. This entry is considered incorrect as a therapeutic target because it does not refer to an individual protein/receptor/enzyme/transporter but rather an entire class/mechanism/process. For structured data purposes it should be flagged for review or replacement with specific molecular targets involved in these pathways—such as particular exosomal surface markers or individual microRNAs.

Other names

Extracellular vesicle-mediated communicationExosome-mediated transfer of miRNA/proteinCell-to-cell communication via extracellular RNA/protein transfer

Not applicable to a specific molecule; mechanisms include vesicle formation, cargo loading, secretion, uptake by recipient cells.