Exploring microRNA profiles for circadian clock and flowering development regulation in Himalayan Rhododendron

miRNA is a non-coding, yet crucial entity in remodeling the genetic architecture. Rhododendron arboreum of Himalayas grows and even flower under fluctuating climate. sRNA from leaves of vegetative and reproductive periods was sequenced to elucidate its seasonal associations. Conserved (256) and novel (210) miRNAs and their precursors were located based on homology with plant databases and transcriptome of the species. 27,139 predicted targets were involved with metabolism, reproduction, and response to abiotic stimuli. A comparative analysis showed differential expression of 198 miRNAs with season-specific abundance of 103 miRNAs. Specific isoforms of 11 miRNA families exhibited a temporal expression and targeted different genes implying a complex regulation. The variable miRNA expression among the tissues of different conditions can be associated with the adaptability of the species, which will prove essential for further study on miRNAs mediating seasonal response. Moreover, exogenous cues also mediate phase transition via networking of flowering pathways and their components. In this context, 18 known families and 77 novel miRNAs modulating 117 genes crucial in circadian entrainment were filtered. A negative correlation was obtained between the expression of 18 of these miRNAs and their targets when tested through quantitative-PCR. It highlighted the role of miRNA-target pairs in perceiving environmental variabilities and monitoring flowering growth. Furthermore, a phylogenetic clustering was performed, which supported the lineage-specific evolution and function of putative miR156 sequence in the species. This documentation of genome-wide profiling of miRNA, their targets, and expression will enhance the understanding of developmental and climate-tolerance strategies in high-altitude trees.