Thammason R.Pangeson T.Ongvarrasopone C.Wiengnak N.Phetrungnapha A.Mahidol University2026-02-062026-02-062026-01-01Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part B Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Vol.281 (2026)10964959https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/114789MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of gene expression in immune responses. In this study, we examined miRNA expression in M. rosenbergii following stimulation with polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C), a synthetic analog of viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Small RNA libraries were prepared from control and Poly I:C-injected prawns and sequenced using high-throughput sequencing. A total of 137 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were identified. Target gene prediction and enrichment analysis showed that these miRNAs are involved in several immune-related pathways, including the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP), endocytosis, autophagy, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway. Time-course analysis revealed distinct expression patterns of selected miRNAs after Poly I:C injection. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed that mro-miR-7689-3p and mro-miR-9014 directly target nejire ( nej ) and autophagy-related gene 9 ( atg9 ), respectively. These results provide new insights into the role of miRNAs in the antiviral immunity of M. rosenbergii and may support the development of RNA-based strategies for disease control in prawn aquaculture.Agricultural and Biological SciencesArticleSCOPUS10.1016/j.cbpb.2025.1111792-s2.0-1050228116681879110741274401