Whole-Transcriptome Reveals Molecular Adaptation Mechanisms of Hypothalamus and Construction of Key ceRNA Networks...

The hypothalamus orchestrates transitions in maternal reproductive states through dynamic neuroendocrine-metabolic network remodeling, optimizing maternal-fetal resource allocation during gestation and facilitating postpartum reproductive recovery. These transitions entail significant alterations in mRNA and non-coding RNA expression profiles. This study integrated whole hypothalamic transcriptome data from female Jining goats at key physiological stages: 8 months old (reproductive period), 10 months old (gestation approximately 130 days), and 12 months old (postpartum approximately 30 days). We aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing maternal pregnancy state transitions regulated via multi-tiered molecular networks. Analysis identified 1219 differentially expressed genes, 192 differentially expressed miRNAs, and 153 differentially expressed lncRNAs across these stages. Key genes (FGF7, FKBP5, KISS1, GnRH1) are implicated in regulating neuroendocrine functions through hypothalamic feedback mechanisms critical for maintaining pregnancy homeostasis. Furthermore, key ceRNA regulatory networks (miR-330-5p/CAMK2B/TCONS_00060770; miR-1307-3p/MAPK13/TCONS_79161; miR-330-5p/CYP19A1/TCONS_00060770) were constructed. These networks are hypothesized to mediate hypothalamic function and pregnancy maintenance/transition by modulating calcium signaling, MAPK cascade, and steroid biosynthesis pathways. This work delineates the core regulatory network underlying synergistic hypothalamic neuroendocrine-metabolic control during ruminant reproductive transitions, providing novel molecular targets and a theoretical framework for targeted reproductive axis modulation and reproductive efficiency enhancement.