Whispers of Nourishment: Unveiling the Role of Non-Coding RNA in Plant Nutrient Availability

Abstract

Micronutrients play a vital role in crop growth and development, as they are essential for various physiological processes and biochemical reactions within plants. Insufficient levels of micronutrients in the soil can lead to nutrient deficiencies in plants, resulting in stunted growth, reduced yields, and poor overall health. In the last decades, it has been seen that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in the regulation of micronutrient uptake, transport, and utilization in plants. They can modulate the expression of genes encoding transporters, chelators, and enzymes related to micronutrient acquisition and utilization. By fine-tuning gene expression, ncRNAs can help plants adapt to varying nutrient availability and optimize their nutrient uptake efficiency. Understanding the interplay between micronutrients and ncRNAs provides insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying nutrient homeostasis and plant adaptation to nutrient stress. This study delves into the origin of various noncoding RNAs, such as miRNA, siRNA, and tsRNA, elucidating their pivotal role in maintaining micro- and macronutrient equilibrium within plant tissues. Overall, this research underscores the intricate interplay between micronutrients and noncoding RNAs in crop plants, shedding light on the intricacies of nutrient regulation and opening up new avenues for future investigation and potential applications in agriculture.