Abstract: miRNAs are a class of small molecule non-coding RNAs that play a regulatory role in many physiological and pathological processes of the body. Our previous research found that the expression level of miRNA-1185-5p in the ovary of double-lambing ewes was significantly lower than that of the single-lambing ewes. In order to further explore the role of miRNA-1185-5p in reproductive process of ewes, the genomic location of miRNA-1185-5p was assessed by using bioinformatical methods. Furthermore, the target genes prediction and their corresponding GO annotation of miRNA-1185-5p were bioinformatically performed. The results showed that miRNA-1185-5p was an intron miRNA located on sheep chromosome 18; a total of 23 genes were predicted as the target genes of miRNA-1185-5p via miRDB and microT methods, which were involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, metabolism and other biological processes. Among the target genes, AhR gene was found to directly participate in the reproductive process. This study suggests that miRNA-1185-5p may regulate the reproductive process of ewes by acting on its target genes such as AhR.

Key words: miRNA-1185-5p, target genes, GO annotation, sheep