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MicroRNAs

MicroRNAs

MicroRNA (miRNA) are short, regulatory RNA transcribed from introns—non-coding regions of a gene—or intergenic regions—stretches of DNA present between genes. Several processing steps are required to form biologically active, mature miRNA. The initial transcript, called primary miRNA (pri-mRNA), base-pairs with itself forming a stem-loop structure. Within the nucleus, an endonuclease enzyme, called Drosha, shortens the stem-loop structure into hairpin-shaped pre-miRNA. After...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 13, 2025

Lung microRNA Profiling Across the Estrous Cycle in Ozone-exposed Mice

Lung microRNA Profiling Across the Estrous Cycle in Ozone-exposed Mice

Published on: January 7, 2019

Dairy cow performance is associated with longitudinal microRNA profiles.

Madison MacLeay¹, Francesc Xavier Donadeu¹, Georgios Banos²

¹The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, United Kingdom.

|August 1, 2025

Summary

Early life plasma microRNAs (miRNAs) show potential as biomarkers for dairy cow health and productivity. These novel indicators could help predict future performance, improving animal welfare and farm profitability.

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Last Updated: Sep 13, 2025

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Individualized Reconstitution of Human Milk Microbiota: A Feasible Approach in Real-World Settings

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Published on: February 7, 2025

Area of Science:

Animal Science
Genomics
Biotechnology

Background:

High-producing dairy cows face challenges with fertility and disease, impacting welfare and profitability.
Genetic selection has improved traits, but additional biomarkers are needed for early problem detection.
Plasma microRNAs (miRNAs) are investigated as potential early-life indicators of future dairy cow performance.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate plasma miRNA profiles in early life as potential biomarkers for dairy cow health and performance traits.
To identify specific miRNAs and their ratios associated with survival, calving, milk production, udder health, and fertility.

Main Methods:

Longitudinal plasma samples were collected from calves, heifers, and first-lactation cows.
Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to measure levels and ratios of nine specific miRNAs.
miRNA data were correlated with various performance and health traits, including milk yield, somatic cell count, and calving interval.

Main Results:

Changes in miR-126-3p from calf to first lactation correlated with milk yield and somatic cell count.
The miR-127 to miR-30c-5p ratio was associated with milk fat and protein yield.
miR-142-5p levels and related ratios linked to the second calving interval, indicating fertility prediction potential.

Conclusions:

Novel early-life plasma miRNA biomarkers were identified for dairy cattle performance.
These miRNAs, including miR-126-3p, miR-127, and miR-142-5p, warrant further research for predictive applications.
Early detection biomarkers could enhance dairy cow management, welfare, and economic outcomes.