Integrated mRNA-seq and miRNA-seq analysis reveals miR-210a-5p regulates uterine aging in laying hens by targeting...

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Molecular Gerontology
• Poultry Science

Background:

• Uterine aging significantly impacts egg quality and hen reproductive performance.
• Molecular mechanisms driving uterine aging in poultry are not well understood.
• This study investigates age-related molecular changes in the hen uterus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize gene expression and regulatory alterations in the aging hen uterus.
• To identify key molecular pathways involved in uterine senescence.
• To elucidate the role of microRNAs in uterine aging.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptomic and microRNA sequencing of uterine tissues from hens of different ages (350, 500, 700 days).
• Bioinformatic analysis for target prediction and pathway identification.
• Experimental validation using primary uterine epithelial cells and molecular assays.

Main Results:

• Significant upregulation of cellular senescence genes, including the p53 pathway, was observed, particularly between 350 and 500 days.
• MicroRNA sequencing revealed age-related downregulation of miR-210a-5p.
• miR-210a-5p directly targets RASL11B, and its reduction activates the RASL11B-MAPK signaling pathway, promoting uterine aging phenotypes and inflammation.

Conclusions:

• A novel regulatory pathway involving miR-210a-5p, RASL11B, and MAPK signaling in hen uterine aging was identified.
• This pathway provides mechanistic insight into age-related decline in poultry reproduction.
• Targeting this pathway may offer strategies to preserve uterine function and extend reproductive lifespan in hens.