From plant gene regulatory grids to network dynamics

Abstract

The regulation of gene expression is the most basic level at which genotypes encoded in DNA can manifest themselves into observable phenotypes. In eukaryotes, gene regulatory networks (GRNs) describe the regulatory web through which transcription factors and microRNAs tightly regulate the spatial and temporal expression of genes. In yeast, Escherichia coli, and animals the study of GRNs has uncovered many of the network properties responsible for creating complex regulatory behavior such as organism growth, development, and response to environmental stimuli. In plants, the study of GRNs is just starting to gain momentum thanks to new high quality genomes and the development of new tools for GRN mapping. Here, we review the latest advancements in the study of plant GRNs and describe the tools and techniques used to produce them. We also discuss the emerging field of network dynamics and the methods currently being developed to measure network dynamics and function in plants.