Intercellular Communication by Extracellular Vesicles and Their MicroRNAs in Asthma

Purpose: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) such as exosomes and microvesicles are phospholipid bilayer enclosed vesicles that are recognized as novel tools for intercellular communications and as biomarkers for several diseases. They contain various DNAs, proteins, mRNAs, and microRNAs (miRNAs) that have potential diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Their biological roles have attracted significant interest in the pulmonary field because their vesicle composition and miRNA content have the ability to transfer biological information to recipient cells and play an important role in pulmonary inflammatory and allergic diseases. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, and it is characterized by variable and recurring symptoms and reversible airflow obstruction. The purpose of this review was to discuss the function of EVs and their miRNAs in asthma, with a focus on the biological properties and biogenesis of EVs, their pathophysiologic roles, and their potential use as biomarkers and therapies for asthma. Methods: We review the findings from several articles on EVs and their miRNAs in asthma and provide illustrative references. Findings: A few studies have reported on the biological function of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid derived EVs in asthmatic progression. In the lungs, EVs might regulate airway inflammation and allergic reactions through their paracrine effects. Furthermore, circulating miRNAs have been found to be associated with EVs. Implication: EV-mediated miRNAs can be used as biomarkers in asthma. (C) 2014 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.