RNA之间可以通过竞争性结合共同的microRNA反应元件实现相互调节，以维持基因表达的有序性和稳定性，这种全新的基因表达调控模式构成竞争性内源RNA（ceRNA）。研究证实，miR-204在脂肪细胞分化过程中发挥重要的调控作用，但其对牦牛肌内脂肪沉积的调控机制有待深入研究。本研究以高度均一的牦牛去分化脂肪细胞（DFAT）为模型，采用超表达、干扰和miRNA报告基因系统，揭示miR-204调控牦牛DFAT细胞分化的作用机制；采用全转录组测序技术，通过构建miR-204介导的ceRNA调控网络，明晰lncRNA、miRNA和mRNA之间的三元互作关系；采用双荧光素酶报告基因检测系统、qPCR、Western blot及RNA pull-down等技术，确定lncRNA和mRNA对miR-204的竞争关系，更精准地揭示牦牛肌内脂肪形成的机理，为培育高肌内脂肪含量的牦牛新品种奠定分子生物学基础。

RNAs undergo reciprocal regulation by competitively binding to common microRNA response elements to maintain the order and stability of gene expression, and this regulatory mode constitutes competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA). Previous studies have indicated that miR-204 plays a vital role in adipocyte differentiation, yet its regulatory role in yak intramuscular fat deposition demands further investigation. In this study, using highly homogenous dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells, we will study the role of miR-204 in the differentiation of DFAT via adenovirus-mediated overexpression, RNA interference and miRNA gene expression reporter system. A miR-204-regulated ceRNA network will be constructed based on whole transcriptome sequencing, and the relevant ceRNAs will be verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay, quantitative PCR, Western blot analysis and RNA pull-down, etc. Our results will comprehensively and specifically demonstrate competitive relation between the miR-204 and lncRNA/mRNA. This study will reveal the molecular mechanism underlying intramuscular adipogenesis and provide molecular biology fundament for breeding new yak breeds with high intramuscular fat content.