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Specific PIWI-Interacting RNAs and Related Small Noncoding RNAs Are Associated With Ovarian Aging in Ames Dwarf
Joseph M Dhahbi1, Joe W Chen1, Supriya Bhupathy1
1Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, California University of Science & Medicine, San Bernardino, USA.
Summary
The Ames dwarf mouse model reveals that small noncoding RNAs, including PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and piRNA-like RNAs (piLRNAs), play roles in ovarian aging. These molecules may help maintain a younger ovarian phenotype in dwarf mice.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Molecular genetics
- Aging research
Background:
- The Ames dwarf (df/df) mouse is a model for delayed aging.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are studied for their role in ovarian aging.
- Other small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) in ovarian aging require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To profile PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and piRNA-like RNAs (piLRNAs) in the ovaries of young and aged Ames dwarf (df/df) and normal mice.
- To investigate the potential roles of these sncRNAs in ovarian aging and the maintenance of a younger ovarian phenotype in df/df mice.
Main Methods:
- Profiling of ovarian sncRNAs, specifically piRNAs and piLRNAs, in young and aged df/df and normal mice.
- Analysis of the expression patterns of these sncRNAs in relation to aging and dwarfism.
- Identification of potential gene targets for the altered sncRNAs.
Main Results:
- Aging and dwarfism significantly alter the ovarian expression of piRNAs, piLRNAs, and transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRF-piRNAs).
- Specific tRF-piRNAs that increase with age may target and reduce breast cancer antiestrogen resistance protein 3 (BCAR3) expression in old df/df mouse ovaries.
- Age-related decreases in certain piLRNAs may de-repress transposable elements, potentially benefiting ovarian aging in df/df mice.
Conclusions:
- Ovarian tissues exhibit unique responses to aging and dwarfism involving novel sncRNAs.
- Beyond miRNAs, piRNAs, piLRNAs, and tRF-piRNAs are implicated in maintaining a younger ovarian phenotype in df/df mice.
- These findings underscore the complexity of aging effects on gene expression and highlight potential therapeutic targets.
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