MiR-153b-3p regulates the proliferation and differentiation of male germ cells by targeting amh in common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential for cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. However, currently, their functions in fish germ cell proliferation and differentiation are poorly defined. In this study, we found that miR-153b-3p was predominantly expressed in the brain, pituitary, hypothalamus, and testes in the common carp (Cyprinus carpio). miR-153b-3p was primarily expressed in spermatogonia and some somatic cells in the testis. Over-expressing miR-153b-3p in vivo using the agomir method promoted male germ cell proliferation. Silencing miR-153b-3p in vivo using the antagomir method repressed male germ cell proliferation. A dual-luciferase reporter assay suggested that amh was a direct target of miR-153b-3p. In conclusion, miR-153b-3p plays roles in spermatogenesis by regulating male germ cell proliferation and differentiation by targeting amh in common carp. •miR-153b-3p was localized in spermatogonia in adult testis in common carp.•miR-153b-3p was identified firstly to regulate spermatogenesis in common carp.•miR-153b-3p regulates spermatogenesis via targeting amh in common carp.