Transcriptomic analysis reveals the role of MicroRNAs during Ecytonucleospora hepatopenaei infection in shrimp (Penaeus vannamei)

Ecytonucleospora hepatopenaei (EHP) is a microsporidian parasite that infects Penaeus vannamei. To study the effects of EHP infection on shrimp microRNA (miRNA) expression, we deep-sequenced the miRNA expression profiles of P. vannamei before and after EHP infection. A total of 86 miRNAs were differentially expressed in P. vannamei infected by EHP, potentially targeting over 15,600 genes involved in protein binding, cellular components, intracellular parts, and biological regulation. Moreover, the target genes were significantly enriched in several KEGG pathways, including Endocytosis and Apoptosis. Additionally, the study found that differentially expressed miRNAs, such as miR-315-x, miR-92-y, and miR-317-z, are involved in multiple regulatory processes during EHP infection, influencing growth, immune regulation, and metabolic balance. These findings reflect the mechanisms by which shrimp coordinate their defense response and metabolic regulation through miRNA expression in response to EHP infection. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of shrimp response to microsporidian infection.