Computational prediction and experimental validation of Ciona intestinalis microRNA genes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This study reports the first collection of validated microRNA genes in the sea squirt, Ciona intestinalis. MicroRNAs are processed from hairpin precursors to ~22 nucleotide RNAs that base pair to target mRNAs and inhibit expression. As a member of the subphylum Urochordata (Tunicata) whose larval form has a notochord, the sea squirt is situated at the emergence of vertebrates, and therefore may provide information about the evolution of molecular regulators of early development.

Results

In this study, computational methods were used to predict 14 microRNA gene families in Ciona intestinalis. The microRNA prediction algorithm utilizes configurable microRNA sequence conservation and stem-loop specificity parameters, grouping by miRNA family, and phylogenetic conserv

SUBMITTER: Norden-Krichmar TM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2243180 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature