Background and aims. Inflammation is a contributor to the dysfunction of insulin-secreting pancreatic beta-cells in Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Exosomes (EXOs) have emerged as important mediators in cell communication, which carry proteins and RNA species (miRNA, mRNA, tRNAs etc). EXOs have been found under normal physiologic and disease states. Their content can reflect biological events and disease progression. In the present study, we are defining the miRNA profiles of beta cells and EXOs, with and without exposure to inflammatory cytokines. By comparing our data to literary references, it will be possible to identify miRNAs that may reflect beta cell damage and/or death.
