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Deep small RNA-Seq reveals microRNAs expression profiles in lactating mammary gland of 2 sheep breeds with different
1Gansu Key Laboratory of Herbivorous Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China.
Abstract:
Micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA) is a type of noncoding RNA, and it has been revealed to play important roles in the activity of the mammary gland (MG) in some species. However, the function of miRNAs in MG of sheep is poorly understood. In the study, Gansu Alpine Merino (GAM; n = 9) and Small-tailed Han sheep (STH; n = 9) with different milk production traits were investigated. Microstructures and the expression profile of miRNAs of MG tissues at peak lactation were studied. Mature alveolar lumens of MG in appearance were larger in STH than GAM. The expression levels of CSN2 and the content of rough endoplasmic reticulum were also higher in STH ewes than GAM ewes. A total of 124 mature miRNAs were expressed, and 18 of these were differentially expressed between the 2 breeds. The KEGG analysis results showed that the targeted genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were mainly involved in some metabolic pathways and signaling pathways related to MG development, milk protein, and fat synthesis. The findings in the study can improve our understanding of the roles of miRNAs in the development and lactation of MG in sheep.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in mammary gland (MG) function. This study identified differentially expressed miRNAs in sheep MG, revealing their involvement in milk production pathways.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs influencing biological processes.
- Their specific roles in sheep mammary gland (MG) development and lactation remain largely uncharacterized.
- Understanding miRNA function is crucial for improving sheep milk production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the function of miRNAs in the mammary gland of sheep.
- To compare miRNA expression profiles between two sheep breeds with differing milk production traits (Gansu Alpine Merino and Small-tailed Han sheep).
- To identify specific miRNAs and their target genes involved in MG development and lactation.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of mammary gland microstructures and miRNA expression profiles at peak lactation.
- Quantitative analysis of CSN2 expression and rough endoplasmic reticulum content.
- High-throughput sequencing to identify differentially expressed mature miRNAs.
- KEGG pathway analysis to determine the functions of miRNA target genes.
Main Results:
- Small-tailed Han sheep exhibited larger mature alveolar lumens and higher CSN2 expression and rough endoplasmic reticulum content compared to Gansu Alpine Merino sheep.
- A total of 124 mature miRNAs were detected, with 18 showing differential expression between the two breeds.
- KEGG analysis indicated that target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs are primarily involved in metabolic and signaling pathways crucial for MG development, milk protein, and fat synthesis.
Conclusions:
- The study identified key miRNAs and their associated pathways regulating mammary gland development and lactation in sheep.
- These findings enhance the understanding of miRNA functions in sheep milk production.
- The results provide a foundation for future research into miRNA-based strategies for improving sheep productivity.
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