Insights into the Regulatory Role of MicroRNAs in Penaeus monodon Under Moderately Low Salinity Stress

Area of Science:

• * Marine Biology
• * Molecular Biology
• * Aquaculture Science

Background:

• * MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators of biological processes in crustaceans, including stress adaptation.
• * Limited research exists on miRNA functions in *Penaeus monodon* (black tiger shrimp), particularly concerning low salinity stress.
• * Understanding miRNA roles is vital for improving shrimp resilience in changing aquatic environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To identify differentially expressed miRNAs in *Penaeus monodon* exposed to acute low salinity stress.
• * To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of these miRNAs in response to salinity changes.
• * To explore the potential of miRNAs in enhancing stress tolerance in *P. monodon* aquaculture.

Main Methods:

• * High-throughput sequencing technology was employed to profile miRNA expression.
• * Bioinformatics analyses were used to identify differentially expressed miRNAs and predict their target genes.
• * Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway analyses were performed to understand the functions of target genes.

Main Results:

• * A total of 118 miRNAs exhibited differential expression in *P. monodon* after low salinity exposure.
• * Predicted target genes are involved in crucial pathways including metabolism, immune response, and stress signaling.
• * Identified miRNAs modulate target gene expression to fine-tune the shrimp's physiological response to low salinity.

Conclusions:

• * miRNAs play a significant role in the adaptation of *P. monodon* to low salinity stress.
• * The identified miRNAs and their targets offer insights into the molecular mechanisms of salinity tolerance.
• * This research provides potential targets for genetic strategies to enhance stress resilience in *P. monodon* aquaculture.