RNA m6A modification meets plant hormones

Abstract

Plant hormones are essential signalling molecules that control and coordinate diverse physiological processes in plant development and adaptation to ever-fluctuating environments. This hormonal regulation of plant development and environmental responses has recently been shown to extensively involve the most widespread RNA modification, N6-methyladenosine (m6A). Here we discuss the current understanding of the crosstalk between m6A and plant hormones, focusing on their reciprocal regulation, where hormonal signals induce m6A reprogramming and m6A affects hormone biosynthesis and signalling cascades. We also highlight new insights into how m6A contributes to the hormonal control of plant development and stress responses. Furthermore, we discuss future prospects for unveiling the regulatory networks that orchestrate epitranscriptome–hormone interactions and harnessing the related knowledge accrued to enhance crop productivity and resilience in changing environments. Hormonal control of plant physiology involves widespread m6A RNA modification. This Review discusses the crosstalk and reciprocal regulation between m6A and plant hormones, and their contributions to development and stress responses.