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Next-generation sequencing-based microRNA profiling of mice testis subjected to transient heat stress

Meng Rao1, Zhengyan Zeng2, Li Tang1

  • 1Department of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.

Oncotarget
|January 18, 2018
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs play a role in heat stress-induced male infertility. This study identified specific microRNAs (miRNAs) linked to testicular damage and germ cell apoptosis, offering potential therapeutic targets.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive biology
  • Molecular endocrinology
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Heat stress is a significant environmental factor contributing to male infertility.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as key regulators in various biological processes, including reproduction.
  • Understanding miRNA involvement in testicular function under stress is crucial for addressing male infertility.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in heat stress-induced spermatogenic impairment in mice.
  • To identify differentially expressed miRNAs and their target pathways in response to testicular hyperthermia.
  • To correlate miRNA levels with germ cell apoptosis.

Main Methods:

  • Testicular hyperthermia model in adult ICR mice (43°C for 30 min).
  • Small RNA high-throughput sequencing for miRNA profiling.
  • RT-PCR validation, Gene Ontology, KEGG pathway analysis, and correlation with germ cell apoptosis.

Main Results:

  • Eleven differentially expressed miRNAs were identified; eight were validated.
  • Target genes of these miRNAs are enriched in pathways critical for testicular function (e.g., ribosomal, HIF-1, MAPK).
  • Specific miRNAs (miR-449a-3p, miR-92a-1-5p, miR-423-3p, miR-128-3p) showed a close correlation with germ cell apoptosis.

Conclusions:

  • A detailed miRNA profile associated with heat stress-induced testicular damage was established.
  • Identified miRNAs and their target pathways represent potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for male infertility.
  • This study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying heat stress-induced male reproductive dysfunction.
Keywords:
apoptosisheat stressmicroRNAnext-generation sequencingspermatogenesis

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