Transcriptome analysis of H1 human embryonic stem cells following miR-21-5p modulation to identify target genes

Human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived exosomes have been shown to alleviate folic acid-induced renal fibrosis. Our overarching study demonstrates that this protective effect is largely mediated by exosomal miR-21-5p, which attenuates glycolysis and reduces TGF-beta signaling activation by targeting ZEB1. To systematically identify the downstream target genes and molecular networks regulated by miR-21-5p in this context, we performed global transcriptomic profiling (RNA-seq). H1 human embryonic stem cells were transfected with four distinct conditions: miR-21-5p mimics, mimics control, miR-21-5p inhibitor, and inhibitor control. By comparing the gene expression profiles across these groups, we aim to validate ZEB1 as a direct target and elucidate the broader gene regulatory landscape of miR-21-5p in hESCs. These datasets provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-fibrotic properties of hESC-derived exosomes.