Identification and differential expression of microRNAs in testis and ovary of the spotted scat (Scatophagus argus)

In the present study, miRNAs in the gonads of sexually mature male and female spotted scat were sequenced and analysed to identify the potential miRNAs regulating gonadal development. 779 known miRNAs and 1,431 newly predicted miRNAs were identified. 811 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were identified between ovary and testis. 339 and 472 miRNAs were higher and lower expressed in testis than in ovary, respectively. These results suggest that miRNA may be involved in the sex determination and differentiation by regulating the key genes in the spotted scat. The identification of the regulatory relationship between miRNAs and mRNAs provides a basis for understanding the role of miRNA-mediated regulation in gonadal development in spotted scat.