The RNA Content of Fungal Extracellular Vesicles: At the "Cutting-Edge" of Pathophysiology Regulation

Author(s)

Bitencourt, Tamires A. ; Pessoni, Andre M. ; Oliveira, Bianca T. M. ; Alves, Lysangela R. ; Almeida, Fausto

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CELLS; v. 11, n. 14, p. 11-pg., 2022-07-01.

Abstract

The role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in interkingdom communication is widely accepted, and their role in intraspecies communication has been strengthened by recent research. Based on the regulation promoted by EV-associated molecules, the interactions between host and pathogens can reveal different pathways that ultimately affect infection outcomes. As a great part of the regulation is ascribable to RNA contained in EVs, many studies have focused on profiling RNAs in fungal and host EVs, tracking their accumulation during infection, and identifying potential target genes. Herein, we overview the main classes of RNA contained in fungal EVs and the biological processes regulated by these molecules, portraying a state-of-the-art picture of RNAs loaded in fungal EVs, while also raising several questions to drive future investigations. Our compiled data show unambiguously that EVs act as key elements in signaling pathways, and play a crucial role in pathosystems. A complete understanding of the processes that govern RNA content loading and trafficking, and its effect on recipient cells, will lead to improved technologies to ward off infectious agents that threaten human health. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/02504-2 - Production and composition evaluation of extracellular vesicles from Aspergillus fumigatus
• Grantee: André Moreira Pessoni
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• FAPESP's process: 19/23801-5 - Iron homeostasis and expression of virulence factors in the genus Paracoccidioides: biotechnological applications
• Grantee: Fausto Bruno dos Reis Almeida
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 21/06794-5 - Fungal extracellular vesicles: immunomodulation and cellular communication
• Grantee: Fausto Bruno dos Reis Almeida
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants - Phase 2
• FAPESP's process: 20/02841-6 - Production evaluation and composition of extracellular vesicles by Candida haemulonii
• Grantee: Bianca Teixeira Morais de Oliveira
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master