Non-coding RNAs and their role in plants: prospective omics-tools for improving growth, development and stress tolerance in field crops.

Abstract

Plants, as sessile organisms, must adapt to dynamic environmental changes through a range of response strategies that confer phenotypic flexibility. Breakthroughs in next-generation sequencing technologies have led to significant improvements in our understanding of the genomic and molecular mechanisms underlying plant growth, development and stress responses. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), have emerged as pivotal regulators in these processes. This article reviews the roles of regulatory ncRNAs in plant stress responses and development, highlighting their intricate molecular interactions. It presents a comprehensive atlas of differentially regulated ncRNAs across key crop genomes, enhancing our understanding of their roles in stress responses, growth, and development. The atlas presented herein offers a foundation for further research in agronomically important crops, paving the way for crop improvement through genetic engineering and sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, we discuss the role of ncRNAs that have already been functionally characterized in growth, development and stress tolerance, providing insights into their potential for developing stress-resistant and high-yielding crops.