Dynamic expression of smRNA from fecal exosome in disease progression of an inflammatory bowel disorder mouse model

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract affecting over 3 million adults in the United States. Despite being widespread, reliable early diagnostic tests are not available. In order to remedy this, we examined exosomal small RNA (smRNA), specifically targeting microRNA (miRNA) and piRNA from the stool samples of IBD model mice, interleukin 10 knockout mice (IL-10 KO), as a potential diagnostic marker. Stool samples were specifically chosen because they are readily available and collection is noninvasive. Total 17 samples were analyzed; 7 and 10 replicates each for end-point and start-point samples, respectively.