Physiological role of primary cilium-derived extracellular vesicles in fine-tuning signal transduction in target cells.

2021 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K23728
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Research Activity Start-up
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: 0701:Biology at molecular to cellular levels, and related fields
• Research Institution: Hiroshima University
• Principal Investigator: IJAZ Faryal 広島大学, 医系科学研究科(医), 助教 (80845595)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-08-30 – 2022-03-31
• Keywords: Primary Cilium / Extracellular Vesicles / Wound Healing

Outline of Final Research Achievements

We propose that primary cilium-derived extracellular vesicles (pcEVs) act as carriers of a high concentration of cargo for efficient signal transduction in target cells. We observed an increase in cell proliferation and migration rates in cells exposed to pcEVs. Further more, proteomic analysis of the the target cells after exposure to pcEVs showed an increase in proteins related to cell migration which were in line with our findings of increased rate of migration in target cells.
Furthermore, in order to know the type of molecular cargo pcEVs carry and their role in cell migration and proliferation, we also optimized a filter purification to separate the pcEVs from the other extracellular vesicles. In addition stable lines expressing fluorescently-tagged pcEVs were established. Using these knock-in cell lines, we were able to visualize the uptake of pcEVs by target cells.

Free Research Field

Cell Biology

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

These findings will provide a rationale to translate this knowledge for therapeutic strategy for pcEVs relevant cellular mechanisms such as chronic wound healing. Also, the pcEVs purification method will help overcome the challenge of separating the pcEVs and identify biomarkers for ciliopathies.