Cloning and bioinformatic identification of small RNAs in the filarial nematode, Brugia malayi

Characterization of small RNAs from the filarial nematode Brugia malayi is the initial step in understanding their role in gene silencing. Both RNA cloning and bioinformatics were used to identify 32 microRNAs (miRNAs) belonging to 24 families. One family, miR-36 only occurs in helminths including B. malayi. Several of the miRNAs are arranged in clusters and are coordinately expressed as determined by northern blot analysis. In addition, small RNAs were identified from Pao/Bleo retrotransposons and their associated repeat sequences indicating that B. malayi uses an RNAi mechanism to maintain genome integrity. Analysis of these data provides a first glimpse into how small RNA-mediated silencing pathways regulate the parasitic life cycle of B. malayi.

RNA cloning and bioinformatics identified microRNAs and Pao/Bleo repeat associated RNAs in Brugia malayi. Thirty-two microRNAs were identified belonging to 24 families. Twenty-one families are conserved among insects, helminthes and vertebrates. One family, miR-36 only occurs in helminthes.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (82 K)Download as PowerPoint slide