Essential RNA-Based Technologies and Their Applications in Plant Functional Genomics

Trends Biotechnol. 2016 Feb;34(2):106-123. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2015.12.001. Epub 2016 Jan 7.

Abstract

Genome sequencing has not only extended our understanding of the blueprints of many plant species but has also revealed the secrets of coding and non-coding genes. We present here a brief introduction to and personal account of key RNA-based technologies, as well as their development and applications for functional genomics of plant coding and non-coding genes, with a focus on short tandem target mimics (STTMs), artificial microRNAs (amiRNAs), and CRISPR/Cas9. In addition, their use in multiplex technologies for the functional dissection of gene networks is discussed.

Keywords: CRISPR/Cas9; artificial microRNA (amiRNA); artificial/synthetic tasiRNA (atasiRNA/syn-tasiRNA); microRNA sponge (SP); short tandem target mimic (STTM); target mimic (TM).

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gene Regulatory Networks
  • Gene Silencing
  • Gene Targeting
  • Genes, Plant*
  • Genomics / methods*
  • Plant Physiological Phenomena*
  • Plants / genetics*
  • RNA, Plant / genetics*

Substances

  • RNA, Plant