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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

MicroRNA Amplification and Recognition through Locked-nucleic-acid In situ Hybridization as a Novel Detection and Quantification Method
Published on: October 7, 2025
Molecular cloning, characterization and expression of miR-15a-3p and miR-15b-3p in dairy cattle
Zhixiong Li1, Huilin Zhang1, Ning Song2
1College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Agricultural Molecular Biology, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
Abstract:
MicroRNA (miRNA) plays an important role in modulating immune responses. We identified miR-15a-3p and miR-15b-3p which were immune related in bovine. Fourteen potential target genes were predicted. Both miR-15a-3p and miR-15b-3p showed significant differential expression patterns in healthy and mastitis infected cattle (P < 0.01). Expression patterns of the two miRNAs provide important information on the relationships between mastitis and miRNA expression.
Insights
We identified two immune-related microRNAs (miRNAs), miR-15a-3p and miR-15b-3p, in cattle. Their expression levels significantly differed between healthy and mastitis-infected animals, suggesting a role in bovine mastitis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Animal Science
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of immune responses.
- Understanding miRNA roles in bovine health is vital for disease management.
- Mastitis significantly impacts cattle health and dairy production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize immune-related microRNAs in cattle.
- To investigate the expression patterns of specific miRNAs in bovine mastitis.
- To explore the potential diagnostic value of miRNAs in mastitis detection.
Main Methods:
- Bioinformatic prediction of potential miRNA target genes.
- Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) for miRNA expression analysis.
- Statistical analysis to compare miRNA expression in healthy versus mastitis-infected cattle.
Main Results:
- Two bovine immune-related microRNAs, miR-15a-3p and miR-15b-3p, were identified.
- Fourteen potential target genes for these miRNAs were predicted.
- Both miR-15a-3p and miR-15b-3p exhibited significantly differential expression in mastitis-infected cattle compared to healthy controls (P < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- miR-15a-3p and miR-15b-3p are involved in bovine immune responses.
- Their distinct expression patterns in mastitis suggest a role in the disease.
- These miRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers for bovine mastitis.

