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Cross-Kingdom Regulation of Plant-Derived miRNAs in Modulating Insect Development
Xuepeng Chi1,2, Zhe Wang1,2, Ying Wang1,2
1College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271002, China.
Abstract:
MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding small RNAs, are crucial regulatory factors in plants and animals at the post-transcriptional level. These tiny molecules suppress gene expression by complementary oligonucleotide binding to sites in the target messenger. Recently, the discovery of plant-derived miRNAs with cross-kingdom abilities to regulate gene expression in insects has promoted exciting discussion, although some controversies exist regarding the modulation of insect development by plant-derived miRNAs. Here, we review current knowledge about the mechanisms of miRNA biogenesis, the roles of miRNAs in coevolution between insects and plants, the regulation of insect development by plant-derived miRNAs, the cross-kingdom transport mechanisms of plant-derived miRNAs, and cross-kingdom regulation. In addition, the controversy regarding the modulation of insect development by plant-derived miRNAs also was discussed. Our review provides new insights for understanding complex plant-insect interactions and discovering new strategies for pest management and even crop genetic improvement.
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