RNA Sequencing of Exosomes Revealed Differentially Expressed Long Noncoding RNAs in Early-Stage Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Benign Esophagitis
Tian Li, Lin Yang, Wenjing Zheng, Yinqing Hu, Peikun Ding, Zheng Wang, Duo Zheng, Li Fu, Bin Chen, Tian Xiao, Yuejun Wang, Feng Chen, Jun S. Liu, Kaiping Gao, Sipeng Shen, Rihong Zhai
Abstract
Aim: To explore the roles of exosomal long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in early-stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and benign esophagitis. Materials & methods: Exosomal lncRNAs were analyzed using RNA-seq and validated by quantitative real-time PCR, loss-of-function, co-culture and RNA pulldown assays. Results: Exosomal lncRNAs displayed tighter tissue-specificity, higher expression level and lower splicing efficiency than that of mRNAs. A total of 152 exosomal lncRNAs were differentially expressed between ESCC and controls. A total of 124 exosomal lncRNAs were dysregulated between ESCC and esophagitis. Knockdown of 13 ESCC-associated lncRNAs modified proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of ESCC cells. A novel lncRNA RP5-1092A11.2 was highly expressed in ESCC-derived exosomes, ESCC cells and tumor tissues. Exosomes released from RP5-1092A11.2-knockdown cells inhibited ESCC cell proliferation. Conclusion: Dysregulated exosomal lncRNAs were functionally associated with different disease status in esophagus.