The long noncoding RNA LTCONS5539 up-regulates the TRAF6-mediated immune responses in miiuy croaker (Miichthys miiuy)

Abstract

With the further study of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), an increasing number of biological studies have demonstrated that lncRNAs are involved in various physiological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, development and disease states. However, unlike mammals, little is known about the role of lncRNAs in the innate immunity of teleost fish. Here, we identify a lncRNA, named LTCONS5539, as critical role in the antiviral and antibacterial response of miiuy croaker and the results showed that lncRNA LTCONS5539 plays a critical regulatory role on TRAF6. Firstly, we found that LPS and poly(I:C) can up-regulate the expression of lncRNA LTCONS5539. Elevated lncRNA LTCONS5539 is capable of increasing the production of inflammatory factors and antiviral genes. Furthermore, the over-expression of lncRNA LTCONS5539 increases the expression of TRAF6 which was confirmed by qPCR and western blotting. On these foundations, we also proved that lncRNA LTCONS5539 modulates innate immunity through TRAF6-mediated immune responses through dual luciferase reporter assay. These results will help to further understand the immunomodulatory mechanisms of lncRNA in teleost fish.