A comprehensive survey of maternal plasma miRNAs expression profiles using high-throughput sequencing

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators in pregnancy.
• Circulating miRNAs show potential as non-invasive biomarkers for pregnancy-related disorders.
• Maternal peripheral blood miRNA expression profiles during pregnancy require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the maternal plasma miRNA expression profile throughout pregnancy using genome-wide sequencing.
• To identify dynamic changes in miRNA expression during different trimesters of gestation.
• To explore the functional roles of pregnancy-related miRNAs and their targets.

Main Methods:

• Maternal plasma miRNA expression profiles were analyzed using SOLiD sequencing across different pregnancy stages.
• Abundant miRNAs in maternal plasma were quantified during pregnancy.
• Functional enrichment analysis of miRNA target genes was performed to identify associated signaling pathways.

Main Results:

• A total of 147 unique miRNAs were sequenced from maternal plasma.
• MiRNA expression varied across trimesters, with 136 in the first, 108 in the second, and 99 in the third.
• Enriched pathways for miRNA targets included genetic disorders, immune diseases, cell signaling, cancer, and cell cycle regulation.

Conclusions:

• Maternal plasma miRNA expression profiles exhibit dynamic changes during pregnancy.
• These miRNAs likely play significant roles in regulating pregnancy processes.
• The findings provide a foundation for developing novel prenatal diagnostic biomarkers.