Expression profiles and function analysis of microRNAs in postovulatory aging mouse oocytes
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Tian-Yang Wang1, Jie Zhang1, Jiang Zhu1
1College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai-an City 271018, P. R. China.
Abstract:
In this study, microRNA (miRNA) profiles in postovulatory aging mouse oocytes were analyzed by microarray screening and RT-qPCR. Hierarchical cluster analysis on the microarray data and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis on the mRNAs targeted by differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs between two adjacent egg-ages suggest that while only a mild alteration in miRNA expression occurred from 13 to 18 h, a great change took place from 18 to 24 h post hCG injection. Theoretical exploration on functions of the predicted target genes suggest that KEGG pathways enriched by 13-18 h DE miRNAs are correlated with early events of oocyte aging while pathways most enriched by 18-24 h or 24-30 h DE miRNAs are correlated with the late symptoms of aged oocytes. Experimental verification on functions of the key proteins predicted by the KEGG analysis and injection of miR-98 mimics or inhibitors further confirmed that miRNAs played stimulatory/inhibitory roles in postovulatory oocyte aging. In conclusion, marked changes in miRNA expression are associated with significant alterations in function and morphology of postovulatory aging oocytes.
Insights
MicroRNA (miRNA) expression significantly changes during mouse oocyte aging, impacting early and late aging symptoms. These findings reveal miRNA roles in regulating oocyte quality and function.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Oocyte aging significantly affects female fertility.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression.
- Understanding miRNA dynamics during oocyte aging is crucial for reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate miRNA expression profiles in postovulatory aging mouse oocytes.
- To identify specific miRNAs and their target pathways involved in oocyte aging.
- To elucidate the functional roles of miRNAs in regulating oocyte aging processes.
Main Methods:
- Microarray screening and RT-qPCR for miRNA profiling.
- Hierarchical cluster analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis.
- Experimental validation of miRNA functions using mimics and inhibitors.
Main Results:
- Significant alterations in miRNA expression observed between 18-24 h post-hCG injection.
- Differentially expressed miRNAs target KEGG pathways associated with early and late oocyte aging.
- miRNAs, such as miR-98, demonstrate stimulatory/inhibitory roles in postovulatory oocyte aging.
Conclusions:
- Marked changes in miRNA expression correlate with functional and morphological alterations in aging oocytes.
- miRNAs are critical regulators influencing the progression of postovulatory oocyte aging.
- This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying oocyte aging and potential therapeutic targets.