MicroRNAs: Exploring their role in farm animal disease and mycotoxin challenges

Authors: KAPPARI, LAHARIKA - University Of Georgia; JOSEPH, DASIREDDY - University Of Georgia; APPLEGATE, TODD - University Of Georgia; SELVARAJ, RAMESH - University Of Georgia; Shanmugasundaram, Revathi

Submitted to: Frontiers in Veterinary Science
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/4/2024
Publication Date: 5/13/2024
Citation: Kappari, L., Joseph, D.R., Applegate, T., Selvaraj, R., Shanmugasundaram, R. 2024. MicroRNAs: Exploring their role in farm animal disease and mycotoxin challenges. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. 11: 1372961. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1372961.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1372961

Interpretive Summary: MicroRNAs have been instrumental in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases in farm animals. Targeting these miRNAs at the therapeutic level can be helpful in altering the grade of prognosis. The role of mycotoxins in suppressing the immune system is responsible for the prevalence of opportunistic pathogen-mediated diseases like necrotic enteritis and salmonellosis, leading to economic loss in farm animals. Therefore, targeting miRNAs that are dysregulated in mycotoxin exposure and using them as a biomarker can prevent harmful diseases in farm animals. The main constraint of the miRNA to use as a diagnostic biomarker is that few specific miRNAs are dysregulated for a particular disease. However, we need tremendous research that focuses on specific miRNAs altered in the course of a definite disease. Thereby, the use of miRNA as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool will support the health sector. Recently, there has been numerous research on miRNAs, with scientists trying to understand the regulatory roles of these small non-coding RNAs in diverse biological processes. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of miRNA studies in farm animals, specifically focusing on exploring their functional significance, regulatory mechanisms, and potential applications on common diseases affecting farm animals and mycotoxicosis.

Technical Abstract: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that play an important role in regulating various biological processes, including immune responses, gene expression, and cellular differentiation within the organism. Their biogenesis involves a complex, multi-step process encompassing the nuclear and cytoplasmic phases. Canonical and non-canonical pathways regulate miRNA maturation, offering global and localized regulatory control. They regulate gene expression by inducing mRNA deadenylation, decay, or translational inhibition, significantly impacting cellular processes and protein synthesis. In livestock diseases, miRNAs could serve as potential markers for disease management, particularly for diseases like paratuberculosis, BVD (Bovine Viral Diarrhea), PRRS (Porcine Respiratory and Reproductive syndrome), swine influenza, and various avian diseases. By using miRNAs as biomarkers, early disease detection, intervention, and management approaches can be developed, which could lead to improved animal welfare and productivity. Furthermore, miRNAs could play a significant role in detecting mycotoxin exposure, posing a considerable threat to animal health and productivity in agriculture. Understanding the interaction between miRNAs and mycotoxin exposure is essential, as miRNAs can serve as diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets. The potential of miRNAs to mitigate mycotoxin-induced ailments has implications for animal and human health. In conclusion, miRNAs have the potential to be crucial players in disease management and therapeutic interventions to enhance animal welfare and productivity. This review will provide information on various miRNAs involved and their role during mycotoxin exposure and diseases in farm animals.