In silico analysis of putative miRNAs and their target genes in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous genes regulators which regulate different processes underlying plant adaptation to abiotic stresses. To gain a deep understanding of role of miRNAs in plants, in the present study, we computationally analyzed different sorghum miRNAs in the drought-induced gene sequences. Homologous miRNA were identified using different plant miRNA databases. Using previously established genes databases, various targets of sorghum miRNAs were predicted viz: transcription factors, chaperonins, metabolic enzymes and other gene targets necessary for proper plant development. Analysis of cis-elements provides molecular evidence for the possible involvement of miRNAs in the process of abiotic stress tolerance in sorghum. Based on these results, it was suggested that miRNAs may play an important role in water stress tolerance.