Discovery and characterization of miRNA genes in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) by use of a deep sequencing approach.

ABSTRACT:

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of endogenous small RNA molecules that downregulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. They play important roles in multiple biological processes by regulating genes that control developmental timing, growth, stem cell division and apoptosis by binding to the mRNA of target genes. Despite the position Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) has as an economically important domesticated animal, there has been little research on miRNAs in this species. Knowledge about miRNAs and their target genes may be used to control health and to improve performance of economically important traits. However, before their biological function can be unravelled they must be identified and annotated. The aims of this study were to identify and

SUBMITTER: Andreassen R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3728263 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature