miRNA analyses of genetic factors and the role of carotenoid accumulation in adductor muscles of QN Orange scallops

QN Orange scallop was interspecific hybrids with orange adductor muscles. Previous studies shown the accumulation of carotenoids was present in QN Orange scallops. In this study, analysis of miRNA expression profiles was performed to explore possibly regulatory patterns in carotenoid accumulation in adductor muscles of QN Orange scallops. Based on small RNA sequencing, a total of 3289 miRNAs and 91 differential expression miRNAs were identified between white and orange adductor muscles, respectively. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of target genes of DE miRNA enriched in the transmembrane transporter activity-related pathways, kinase activity-related pathways, signal transduction-related pathways, ABC transporters, Retinol metabolism, lipid related metabolism and calcium signaling pathway. A total of nine adductor muscles from each strain were preserved for miRNA sequencing analysis. Samples were consolidated every three units to form a single sample for sequencing.