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Updated: May 5, 2026
Purification and microRNA Profiling of Exosomes Derived from Blood and Culture Media
Published on: June 14, 2013
Review: placenta-specific microRNAs in exosomes - good things come in nano-packages
Y Ouyang1, J-F Mouillet1, C B Coyne2
1Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA gene products that commonly regulate mRNA expression by repression of translation and/or transcript decay. Whereas common and unique types of miRNAs are expressed by the placenta during pregnancy, the functions of most placental miRNA species are unknown. In addition to their intracellular silencing function, miRNAs are also released to the extracellular space and systemic circulation, where they can potentially target cells to regulate mRNA and protein expression, providing a non-hormonal means of intercellular communication that contributes to tissue homeostasis and disease pathophysiology. This review centers on extracellular miRNAs that originate in trophoblasts and that could mediate crosstalk between the feto-placental unit and the mother during pregnancy. We specifically detail the function of miRNAs from the primate-specific chromosome 19 miRNA cluster. These miRNAs are highly expressed in human placentas and in the serum of pregnant women. They are also packaged into extracellular vesicles of diverse sizes, including exosomes, and endow non-trophoblastic cells with resistance to a variety of viruses.
Insights
Placental microRNAs (miRNAs) are released into circulation, acting as signaling molecules between mother and fetus. Certain placental miRNAs, particularly from the chromosome 19 cluster, confer viral resistance to cells.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs regulating gene expression.
- Placental miRNAs are crucial during pregnancy, but their functions are largely unknown.
- Extracellular miRNAs facilitate intercellular communication and contribute to homeostasis and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of extracellular miRNAs originating from trophoblasts.
- To explore miRNA-mediated crosstalk between the feto-placental unit and the mother.
- To highlight the function of primate-specific chromosome 19 miRNA cluster miRNAs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on placental extracellular miRNAs.
- Analysis of miRNA expression in human placentas and maternal serum.
- Investigation of miRNA packaging into extracellular vesicles, including exosomes.
Main Results:
- Extracellular miRNAs from trophoblasts mediate intercellular communication during pregnancy.
- Chromosome 19 miRNAs are highly expressed in placentas and maternal serum.
- These miRNAs, packaged in extracellular vesicles, confer viral resistance to non-trophoblastic cells.
Conclusions:
- Extracellular placental miRNAs represent a novel non-hormonal communication system.
- Chromosome 19 miRNAs play a significant role in feto-maternal crosstalk and innate immunity.
- Further research into placental miRNAs could reveal new insights into pregnancy physiology and pathology.
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