A Role for microRNAs in the Epigenetic Control of Sexually Dimorphic Gene Expression in the Human Placenta
Lauren A. Eaves, Preeyaphan Phookphan, Julia E. Rager, Jacqueline Bangma, Hudson P. Santos, Lisa Smeester, T. Michael O’Shea, Rebecca C. Fry
Abstract
Aim: The contribution of miRNAs as epigenetic regulators of sexually dimorphic gene expression in the placenta is unknown. Materials & methods: 382 placentas from the extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGAN) cohort were evaluated for expression levels of 37,268 mRNAs and 2,102 miRNAs using genome-wide RNA-sequencing. Differential expression analysis was used to identify differences in the expression based on the sex of the fetus. Results: Sexually dimorphic expression was observed for 128 mRNAs and 59 miRNAs. A set of 25 miRNA master regulators was identified that likely contribute to the sexual dimorphic mRNA expression. Conclusion: These data highlight sex-dependent miRNA and mRNA patterning in the placenta and provide insight into a potential mechanism for observed sex differences in outcomes.