Received July 12, 2023
Accepted January 16, 2024

Objective: Today, researchers have succeeded in achieving oocyte-like cells through the differention of stem cells in vitro. MicroRNAs are key regulators of oocyte development. In this study we decided to evaluate the expression pattern of microRNA-21, microRNA-15a, and microRNA-372 in oocyte-like cells, to determine the maturation stage of oocyte-like cells. Methods: Human follicular fluid samples were collected and centrifuged, and their cells were divided into 3 groups, day 7 as control group ˛ day 14 and 21. During this period, cells were evaluated for their morphological appearance and viability by inverted microscope. RNA isolation was performed and cDNA was reversely transcribed by specific stem-loop RT primers. Real-time RT-PCR was used to detect expression of microRNAs. Results: Relative expression of microRNA-21 and microRNA-15a on day 21 was significantly down-regulated compared to the control group (day7), but microRNA-372 did not show a significant difference. Also, on day14 compared to the control group (day7), microRNA-21 did not show a significant difference, but microRNA-15a and microRNA-372 were significantly down-regulated. MicroRNA-21 and microRNA-15a on day 21 compared to day 14 revealed down-regulated levels, but microRNA-372 revealed up-regulated levels. Conclusions: Our results showed in oocyte-like cells the same as oocyte, significant decrease in expression of microRNA-21 and microRNA-15a may leads to cytoplasmic maturation, germinal vesicle break down and the completion of meiosis І. Also down-regulation expression of microRNA-372 maybe is a confirmation that mesenchymal stem cells have differentiated into germ cells, and these cells were differentiated into oocyte-like cells.