miR-26a-5p and miR-125b-5p affect trophoblast genes and cell functions important during early pregnancy†

The most critical stage of pregnancy is embryo implantation, which relies on the synchronized developmental capacity of the embryo and uterine receptivity to implantation. In early pregnancy, conceptus and uterus release several factors enabling successful implantation and placentation. Molecules involved in embryo-maternal crosstalk include, but are not limited to, hormones, growth factors, and cytokines. The discovery of microRNAs (small non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression) has revolutionized our understanding of many biological processes, including pregnancy. To date, numerous miRNAs have been detected in different species during pregnancy, both at the endometrial and embryonic sites. Thus, microRNAs are considered important regulators of early pregnancy events. Here, we report miR-26a-5p and miR-125b-5p effects on human and pig trophoblast cell function. Both microRNAs change the level of several genes and proteins important for proper embryo development. Moreover, miR-26a-5p stimulates porcine trophoblast proliferation and has a negative impact on its affinity to laminin. However, miR-125b-5p decreases porcine trophoblast cell migration. Our studies suggest that miR-26a-5p and miR-125b-5p can affect early pregnancy functions by regulating genes and processes important for proper conceptuses' development and progression through the implantation process.