miRNA expression profiles in antler cartilage tissues of Cervus elaphus kansuensis

Rapid growth stage is a special period during antler regeneration.At the rapid growth stage, antler grows at an alarming rate without any cancer, which is unique among mammals. Antler regeneration is driven by the early growth center. The growth center mainly includes velvet skin, mesenchymal and cartilage tissue, and cartilage tissue occupies most part of the growth center. This study Identified and characterized miRNA expression profiles in antler cartilage tissues of Cervus elaphus kansuensis at different growth stages (30, 60, and 90 d). These data may contribute new insights to understand the complex regulatory networks of miRNAs and their target mRNAs that are involved in antler development.