Systemic mobile RNAs: From molecular mechanisms to agricultural applications

Plants employ mobile RNAs as systemic signals to coordinate growth, development, and environmental responses across tissues. Recent techniques have identified diverse RNAs that move cell-to-cell and long-distance, potentially via plasmodesmata, extracellular vesicles, and the phloem. Members of these RNAs have been shown to regulate numerous key processes such as leaf polarity, tuberization, and flowering time. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms governing RNA mobility, including sequence motifs, RNA-binding proteins, and epitranscriptomic modifications, and highlight their applications, such as mobile clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRISPR-associated protein 9 for transgene-free breeding and RNA-based nanocarriers for sustainable pest management. Taken together, we summarize recent insights into the mechanisms and functions of mobile RNAs and progress in agricultural applications of them, offering innovative strategies for sustainable crop improvement and protection in the future.