Expression of miRNAs in ovine fetal gonads: potential role in gonadal differentiation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Gonadal differentiation in the mammalian fetus involves a complex dose-dependent genetic network. Initiation and progression of fetal ovarian and testicular pathways are accompanied by dynamic expression patterns of thousands of genes. We postulate these expression patterns are regulated by small non-coding RNAs called microRNAs (miRNAs). The aim of this study was to identify the expression of miRNAs in mammalian fetal gonads using sheep as a model.

Methods

We determined the expression of 128 miRNAs by real time PCR in early-gestational (gestational day (GD) 42) and mid-gestational (GD75) sheep ovaries and testes. Expression data were further examined and validated by bioinformatic analysis.

Results

Expression analysis revealed significant differences betwe

SUBMITTER: Torley KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3027096 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature