| Literature DB >> 26530390 |
Filipe Borges1, Robert A Martienssen1.
Abstract
Plant genomes encode various small RNAs that function in distinct, yet overlapping, genetic and epigenetic silencing pathways. However, the abundance and diversity of small-RNA classes varies among plant species, suggesting coevolution between environmental adaptations and gene-silencing mechanisms. Biogenesis of small RNAs in plants is well understood, but we are just beginning to uncover their intricate regulation and activity. Here, we discuss the biogenesis of plant small RNAs, such as microRNAs, secondary siRNAs and heterochromatic siRNAs, and their diverse cellular and developmental functions, including in reproductive transitions, genomic imprinting and paramutation. We also discuss the diversification of small-RNA-directed silencing pathways through the expansion of RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, DICER proteins and ARGONAUTE proteins.Entities:
Mesh：
Substances：
Year: 2015 PMID： 26530390 PMCID： PMC4948178 DOI： 10.1038/nrm4085
Source DB: PubMed Journal: Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol ISSN： 1471-0072 Impact factor: 94.444