Differential age-related transcriptomic analysis of ovarian granulosa cells in Kazakh horses.

This research article focuses on studying the aging effects on the reproductive capacities of Kazakh horses, through a transcriptomic analysis of ovarian granulosa cells collected from these horses. The studys findings hold significant importance in understanding the molecular mechanisms influencing follicular development, thereby furnishing a theoretical basis for future research on reproductive aging in Kazakh mares.

Objective of the Study

• The aim of this research was to explore and understand the changes which occur in the reproductive system of Kazakh horses due to aging. The research used a transcriptome sequencing approach to study variations in the gene expression of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) collected from Kazakh horses of various ages.

Methodology

• Ovarian granulosa cells were collected from Kazakh horses at different stages of maturity (1, 2, 7, and above 15 years excluding the age of 15) for whole transcriptome sequencing.
• The examination entailed the identification and selection of differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs in each age group, followed by a comprehensive investigation via GO enrichment analysis.

Findings

• The researchers found notable variations in the gene expression within granulosa cells, for different age groups. These differences were seen in mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs.
• eca-miR-486-3p and miR-486-y were observed to have the highest degree of connectivity, indicating their crucial role in the gene regulatory networks.
• Further analyses revealed that the differentially expressed target genes are actively involved in critical signaling pathways associated with cell proliferation, apoptosis, and hormonal regulation. These include the MAPK signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, Calcium signaling pathway, Aldosterone synthesis and secretion, Cellular senescence, and NF-kappa B signaling pathway.

Conclusion and Implications

• The research makes a significant contribution in uncovering the intricacies of follicular development in Kazakh horses. It validates a differential regulatory network involving lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA, which plays a crucial role in processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. This study forms a valuable theoretical foundation for further research in the domain of reproductive aging in Kazakh mares, as well as horse ovarian development in general.