Comprehensive study of small RNA expression in Anopheles gambiae germinal tissues and larvae

We performed small RNA deep sequencing during larval and adult gonadogenesis and find that they predominantly express four classes of regulatory small RNAs. We identify novel miRNA molecules and also determine multiple genomic clusters of 24-30nt Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) that map to transposable elements (TEs) and 3’UTR of protein coding genes. This is the first description of the germline miRNome in a mosquito species and should prove a valuable resource for understanding gene regulation that underlies gametogenesis and reproductive capacity. The contribution of small RNA pathways to germline TE regulation and genome defence in general is an important finding for approaches aimed at manipulating mosquito populations through the use of selfish genetic elements.