Research Paper Volume 15, Issue 5 pp 1237—1256
Senescence-associated exosomes transfer miRNA-induced fibrosis to neighboring cells
Figure 7. Graphical illustration. Radiation-induced senescent MSCs secrete SA-EXOs that encapsulate unique miRNA profiles, compared to normal MSCs (control). These miRNAs target and modulate genes and proteins that are crucial in various mechanosensitive and TGF-β pathways. SA-EXO exchange between normal MSCs and SA-EXOs activated potent phenotypes—these phenotypes included elevated a-SMA, Ki67, and TGF-β mediated gene expressions. This shows that SA-EXOs can serve as potent SASP mediators that activate invasive characteristics in neighboring cells.