MiR-92a inhibits porcine ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis by targeting Smad7 gene

FEBS Lett. 2014 Nov 28;588(23):4497-503. doi: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.10.021.

Abstract

Smad7 has a key role in apoptosis of mammalian ovarian granulosa cells (GCs), as it antagonizes and fine-tunes transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling. This study demonstrates that miR-92a regulates GC apoptosis in pig ovaries by targeting Smad7 directly. The expression level of miR-92a was down-regulated in atretic porcine follicles, whereas miR-92a expression led to inhibition of GC apoptosis. The Smad7 gene was identified as a direct target of miR-92a using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Transfection of GCs with miR-92a mimics decreased Smad7 mRNA and protein levels, whereas expression of an miR-92a inhibitor in GCs had the opposite effect. In addition, knockdown of Smad7 prevented GC apoptosis in cells that expressed the miR-92a inhibitor.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Apoptosis / genetics*
  • Female
  • Granulosa Cells / cytology*
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • Ovary / cytology*
  • Smad7 Protein / genetics*
  • Swine*

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • Smad7 Protein