Rattus norvegicus miRNome

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) modulate gene expression during development and ageing by lowering stability and/or translation of target mRNAs. In this project we investigate complexity and variation of miRNA populations in hypothalamc nuclei and peripheral tissues of rat at different ages (newborns, young adult and adult). Hypothalamic nuclei (notably the arcuate nucleus) play central roles in the control of energy homeostasis. We aim to test the impact of hypercaloric diets in early (perinatal conditions) and later life on miRNA populations.