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Porcine Ovarian piRNA Dynamics: A Comparative Study During Follicular Atresia
Jinbi Zhang1, Long Huang2, Xinxin Qin2
1College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Jinling Institute of Technology, Nanjing 211169, China.
Biology
|June 26, 2025
Summary
This study identifies key PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) involved in ovarian follicular atresia in sows. These piRNAs regulate crucial cellular processes, offering insights into female reproductive health and potential biomarkers for ovarian pathology.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Follicular atresia is a natural ovarian process impacting female fertility.
- The regulatory mechanisms of follicular atresia, especially involving non-coding RNAs like PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To profile piRNAs in porcine ovarian follicles during atresia.
- To identify differentially expressed piRNAs between healthy and atretic follicles.
- To elucidate the potential regulatory roles of these piRNAs in follicular atresia.
Main Methods:
- Single antral follicles from sow ovaries were classified as healthy (HF) or atretic (AF).
- RNA sequencing (Illumina Hiseq 3000) was performed to identify piRNAs.
- Differential expression analysis and quantitative PCR (qPCR) validation were conducted.
- Target gene prediction and functional pathway analysis were performed.
Main Results:
- A total of 452 piRNAs were identified, with 103 differentially expressed between HFs and AFs.
- Five specific piRNAs (piR-23, piR-27, piR-64, piR-65, piR-76) showed significant differential expression validated by qPCR.
- Pathway analysis indicated these piRNAs target genes involved in apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, substance transport, and cellular integrity.
Conclusions:
- This study presents the first comprehensive piRNA profile in porcine ovarian follicles during atresia.
- Identified piRNAs may play crucial roles in regulating early follicular atresia.
- Findings offer insights into piRNA function and potential biomarker development for ovarian pathology.
