Molecular Functions of Long Noncoding Transcripts in Plants

摘要

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcribed from the genomes of various eukaryotes. LncRNAs are potent regulators of various developmental processes and respond to external stimuli. Recent studies have shown that lncRNAs function as potent cis- and trans-regulators of gene expression and as modular scaffolds of chromatin-modifying complexes. Several plant lncRNAs transcribed in response to various external signals and stresses have been identified. However, only a few of these lncRNAs have been characterized, and information regarding their regulatory mechanisms is limited. Here, we describe our current understanding of the biological functions of plant lncRNAs.