Characterization of maternal plasma miRNAs expression profile by SOLiD sequencing

It is reported that circulating miRNAs are potential new biomarkers for diagnostic and other clinical applications. To study the varieties of plasma miRNAs expression, we investigated maternal plasma miRNAs expression profiles using SOLiD sequencing technology. The results showed that the distribution and abundance of specific miRNAs in plasma are varying during physiological pregnancy process. We chose 11 abundant maternal plasma miRNAs(let-7a, let-7b, miR-192, 22, 24, 25, 26a, 29a, 375, 451, 320a), then analyzed their functions by literature review. The results showed that specific miRNA associated with regulation of some physiologic processes, such as inflammation, muscle differentiation, insulin resistance. These processes may play important roles in normal pregnancy process. This study also proved that SOLiD sequencing technology was an effective method for plasma miRNAs expression profiling.