Sequencing circulating miRNA in maternal plasma with modified library preparation

Abstract: Background and objectives: Circulating microRNAs in maternal plasma as one type of the cell free nucleotide acid revealed its potential for non-invasive prenatal diagnosis. The next generation sequencing technology provides promising approach detecting miRNA for such purpose. Method: In this present study, a modified library preparation method for SOLiD sequencing technology was developed and maternal plasma miRNA from single and twin pregnancies was analyzed. Quantitative PCR was carried out for comparison. Results: Results showed that the sequenced data was improved remarkably with this modified library preparation method; different types and levels of miRNA expression were found in twin pregnancy compared with control. Several miRNAs were validated that remarkably changed in twin pregnancy. Interpretation and conclusion: It is indicated that miRNAs might involve the process of pregnancy such as the generation of twin pregnancy, and it also suggested that the specific miRNAs could act as potential biomarkers for clinical diagnosis and therapy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]