The Role of Extracellular RNA in Mediating the Health Effects of Alcohol (R21)

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The purpose of this FOA is to provide support for innovative research into the role of extracellular RNA (exRNA) in the development of alcohol-related diseases and end-organ injuries. As used here, the term exRNA refers to RNA molecules circulating outside of cells, either within vesicles or associated with carrier molecules. It is anticipated that this FOA will generate data that may lead to breakthroughs in our understanding of the role of exRNA communication in the initiation, progression and maintenance of the diverse medical disorders caused by excessive, long-term alcohol consumption. In the future this knowledge may be critical in the diagnosis, treatment and management of vulnerable patient populations debilitated by the vast array of alcohol-induced pathologies and enable clinicians to improve disease outcomes and, consequently, public health. In addition, research supported by this FOA may also provide information on the mechanistic basis of the health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption.

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