Meeting Abstract

P2.17  Saturday, Jan. 5  The role of microRNA in extreme anoxia tolerance of annual killifish embryos RIGGS, C.L.*; PODRABSKY, J.E.; Portland State University; Portland State University riggsclaire@gmail.com

Investigating the physiological mechanisms of anoxia tolerance and ischemic preconditioning in vertebrates strengthens our understanding and application of anoxia survival strategies. Most anoxia research has focused on mammals, an anoxia intolerant group, with limited studies of anoxia tolerant vertebrates. This study examines the role of microRNA expression associated with anoxia tolerance of Austrofundulus limnaeus embryos, a highly anoxia tolerant vertebrate. Embryos of A. limnaeus appear to share many characteristics with anoxia intolerant species in their response to anoxia, yet they are able to survive for months in the complete absence of oxygen. Thus, it is likely that this species has evolved novel mechanisms to support anoxia tolerance. Several recent studies indicate a potential role for microRNA in metabolic depression during anoxia tolerance, through gene silencing. We hypothesize that changes in miRNA expression during exposure to and recovery from anoxia may identify molecular pathways that are central to supporting survival of anoxia in A. limnaeus embryos. miRNA levels were profiled in anoxia treated A. limnaeus embryos sampled prior to and following a 24-hour anoxic exposure. These data will provide the first detailed study of miRNA expression during exposure to anoxia, and will hopefully lead to a better understanding of the molecular pathways that support anoxia tolerance in vertebrates.