Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Plant Nutrition through Mycorrhizal Interactions

Abstract

In nature, many plants rely on symbiotic interaction with mycorrhizae for their nutrition and survival. For instance, nitrogen-fixing nodules and mycorrhizae are well established mutualistic biotic interactions between plants and bacterial/fungal partners under nitrogen limiting environment. Many small regulatory components of RNA like micro-RNAs play a critical role in establishment of these symbioses. These regulatory components are also crucial for balancing hormone levels, and synchronization of plant defenses and development pathways. However, functions of various sRNAs are still need to be addressed. This chapter will detailed out various important parts these regulatory components (sRNA, miRNA and siRNA) are playing during mycorrhizal interactions for plant growth, development and nutrition.