Pseudomonas putida modulates the expression of miRNAs and their target genes in response to drought and salt stresses in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.).

MicroRNAs are small non-coding regulatory RNA molecules that play an important role in the modulation of gene expression during various environmental stresses. Pseudomonas putida RA, a plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) colonizes the root surface of plants improving their growth and development during abiotic stresses modulating the expression of stress-responsive genes; however, the impact of RA on stress responsive-miRNA remains elusive. The present study was an attempt to delineate the role of PGPR in modulating stress responsive-miRNAs in a tolerant desi chickpea genotype exposed to drought and salt stresses. The existence of variable expression patterns of individual miRNAs and their target genes under these stresses at different time points indicate a distinct miRNA-mediated perception and response mechanisms operating under these stresses in the presence or absence of RA in chickpea.