The Attributes of RNA Interference in Relation to Plant Abiotic Stress Tolerance

Abstract

Micro RNAs are small non coding RNA molecule that plays a vital role in post transcriptional gene regulation by either translational repression or by inducing mRNA cleavage. These small non coding RNAs have emerged as one of the master regulators of plant growth and development. Recent studies have revealed their role in abiotic stress responses. Expression level of several miRNA changes when exposed to drought, salinity, temperature variations and oxidative environment resulting in modulation of the expression of target genes that are associated with stress response. This review aims to focus on the regulatory role of plant micro RNAs during abiotic stress.