The RNA-Recognition Pathway: An Overlooked Transportation Mechanism for Extracellular and Therapeutic RNAs

In the central dogma proposed by Francis Crick in 1958, RNA simply plays an intermediary role between DNA and protein expression. Over the last few decades, our understanding of the diversity of RNA forms and functions has vastly increased. One of the many frontiers of RNA research today is expanding its scope beyond the confines of the plasma membrane and exploring the roles of RNA outside of the cell. In this perspective, we will highlight the key evidence for RNA's role in the extracellular space, discuss new research on the mechanisms of extracellular RNA transport, and the potential impact of translating these discoveries into an effective and broadly useful clinical biotechnology.