exRNA

Why in news? A study published in the journal Clean Water found that bacterial exRNA can persist even in disinfected drinking water. 
What is exRNA?
•    Extracellular RNA (exRNA) refers to RNA molecules that exist outside the cell, present in body fluids such as blood, saliva, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. 
•    Earlier, scientists believed RNA functioned only inside cells and would be quickly destroyed if it leaked out. 
•    New research shows that cells actively export RNA, indicating that exRNA has specific biological functions. 
How exRNA survives outside cells
•    exRNA is enclosed within protective molecular containers, which prevent it from being degraded by enzymes. 
•    These protective mechanisms allow exRNA to remain stable and travel through body fluids.
Function and Biological Role
•    exRNA acts as a long-distance communication system between cells. 
•    It carries signals that can modify gene expression and cellular behaviour in recipient cells. 
•    This communication helps coordinate processes such as immune responses, tissue repair, and development.
Role in Diseases
•    exRNA can also play a role in disease progression. 
•    Cancer cells can release exRNA to promote tumour growth and influence surrounding cells.