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Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Single-cell Microinjection for Cell Communication Analysis
Published on: February 26, 2017
Exchange of genetic material: a new paradigm in bone cell communications
Pengbin Yin1, Yi Li1, Houchen Lv1
1Department of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing, 100853, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
An emerging concept in intercellular communication in mammals is that communication can be mediated by exchange of genetic material, mainly in the form of RNAs. In this review, we discuss recent studies that describe the trafficking of genetic material with a focus on bone cell communication. Three major carriers are discussed: gap junctions, protein-binding complexes, and genetic material exchange mediated by extracellular vesicles. While protein-level exchange has been well documented, no review has summarized the novel paradigm of cell-to-cell communication by genetic information exchange in bone tissues or its biological relevance in terms of bone homeostasis and bone-related diseases. The purpose of this review is to promote further understanding of this novel discovery regarding bone cell communication and provide references for further investigations.
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