Expression analysis of miR-221-3p and its target genes in horses

Background A microRNA (miRNA) is a small non-coding RNA (ncRNA) approximately 20 nucleotides long and it affects gene expression through mRNA cleavage or translational repression. Horses ( Equus caballus ) have been domesticated and bred to enhance their speed for racing. It has been studied extensively with genetic diversity, origins and evolution. Objectives We examined expression patterns of miR-221-3p and its target gene CDKN1C in various horse tissues. Methods We used bioinformatic tools to examine target gene, seed region and evolutionary conservation of miR-221-3p. The expression patterns of miR-221-3p and its target gene CDKN1C were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results Among eight tissues of horse, miR-221-3p was highly expressed in cerebellum and spleen. On the other hand, only medulla was highly expressed in CDKN1C gene. Conclusion Our study provides expression data of miR-221-3p and CDKN1C gene in horse and suggests the fundamental information for future studies in relation to functional importance.