hsa-miR-144-3p and hsa-miR-4262 are exosomal biomarkers and function as tumor suppressors in HCMV positive brain tumor

The present retrospective observational study was designed to explore the expression deregulation of exosomal microRNAs, hsa-miR-144-3p, hsa-miR-4262, and related genes in brain tumor patients. Exosomes were extracted from 400 brain tumor patients and 400 controls and characterized using DLS, TEM, and ELISA. Quantitative PCR was used to check the expression level of hsa-miR-144-3p, hsa-miR-4262, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) and AKT kinase (AKT) in study cohort. CMV level in brain tumor patients was checked by quantifying UL83. Data analysis showed significant deregulation of hsa-miR-144-3p (p &lt; 0.0001), hsa-miR-4262 (p &lt; 0.0001), PI3K (p &lt; 0.0001), and AKT (p &lt; 0.0001) in brain tumor patients. Conclusions: ROC curve analysis showed that deregulation of hsa-miR-144-3p, hsa-miR-4262, PI3K, and AKT may act as good diagnostic markers for brain tumor patients. <b>New Brain Cancer Markers and Tumor Suppressors Found in Exosomes</b> Exosomes are like tiny “message bubbles” released by cells to carry important information, such like microRNAs, that help control various body functions. Cells in our body communicate with each other using exosomes. These tiny vesicles can travel to different parts of the body and are being explored for their potential in diagnosing diseases and delivering drugs. Present study focused on the exosomal microRNAs (hsa-miR-144-3p and hsa-miR-4262) and related genes (PI3K and AKT) in brain tumor patients. Blood samples from 400 brain tumor patients and 400 healthy individuals were analyzed. Exosomes were isolated and confirmed for their size and morphology. The confirmed exosomes were processed for total RNA extraction. The expression of selected microRNAs and genes were analyzed in patients and controls samples. Data analysis showed significant decreased levels of <i>hsa-miR-144-3p</i> (p &lt; 0.0001) and <i>hsa-miR-4262</i> (p &lt; 0.0001) in brain tumor patients compared to controls. Significant increased level of <i>PI3K</i> (p &lt; 0.0001), <i>AKT</i> (p &lt; 0.0001), and UL823 (p &lt; 0.0001) was observed in brain tumor patients compared to controls. The study suggests that these microRNAs and genes could be used to diagnose and provide better treatment for brain tumor patients.