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Ding T, Li W, Li F, Ren M, Wang W. microRNAs: Key Regulators in Plant Responses to Abiotic and Biotic Stresses via Endogenous and Cross-Kingdom Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1154. [PMID: 38256227 PMCID: PMC10816238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Dramatic shifts in global climate have intensified abiotic and biotic stress faced by plants. Plant microRNAs (miRNAs)-20-24 nucleotide non-coding RNA molecules-form a key regulatory system of plant gene expression; playing crucial roles in plant growth; development; and defense against abiotic and biotic stress. Moreover, they participate in cross-kingdom communication. This communication encompasses interactions with other plants, microorganisms, and insect species, collectively exerting a profound influence on the agronomic traits of crops. This article comprehensively reviews the biosynthesis of plant miRNAs and explores their impact on plant growth, development, and stress resistance through endogenous, non-transboundary mechanisms. Furthermore, this review delves into the cross-kingdom regulatory effects of plant miRNAs on plants, microorganisms, and pests. It proceeds to specifically discuss the design and modification strategies for artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs), as well as the protection and transport of miRNAs by exosome-like nanovesicles (ELNVs), expanding the potential applications of plant miRNAs in crop breeding. Finally, the current limitations associated with harnessing plant miRNAs are addressed, and the utilization of synthetic biology is proposed to facilitate the heterologous expression and large-scale production of miRNAs. This novel approach suggests a plant-based solution to address future biosafety concerns in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianze Ding
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Wenkang Li
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Fuguang Li
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Maozhi Ren
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Zhengzhou Research Base, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (T.D.); (W.L.); (F.L.)
- Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang 455000, China
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Shahriari Z, Su X, Zheng K, Zhang Z. Advances and Prospects of Virus-Resistant Breeding in Tomatoes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15448. [PMID: 37895127 PMCID: PMC10607384 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant viruses are the main pathogens which cause significant quality and yield losses in tomato crops. The important viruses that infect tomatoes worldwide belong to five genera: Begomovirus, Orthotospovirus, Tobamovirus, Potyvirus, and Crinivirus. Tomato resistance genes against viruses, including Ty gene resistance against begomoviruses, Sw gene resistance against orthotospoviruses, Tm gene resistance against tobamoviruses, and Pot 1 gene resistance against potyviruses, have been identified from wild germplasm and introduced into cultivated cultivars via hybrid breeding. However, these resistance genes mainly exhibit qualitative resistance mediated by single genes, which cannot protect against virus mutations, recombination, mixed-infection, or emerging viruses, thus posing a great challenge to tomato antiviral breeding. Based on the epidemic characteristics of tomato viruses, we propose that future studies on tomato virus resistance breeding should focus on rapidly, safely, and efficiently creating broad-spectrum germplasm materials resistant to multiple viruses. Accordingly, we summarized and analyzed the advantages and characteristics of the three tomato antiviral breeding strategies, including marker-assisted selection (MAS)-based hybrid breeding, RNA interference (RNAi)-based transgenic breeding, and CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing. Finally, we highlighted the challenges and provided suggestions for improving tomato antiviral breeding in the future using the three breeding strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zolfaghar Shahriari
- Biotechnology and Germplasm Resources Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yunnan Seed Laboratory, 2238# Beijing Rd, Panlong District, Kunming 650205, China; (Z.S.); (X.S.)
- Crop and Horticultural Science Research Department, Fars Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Shiraz 617-71555, Iran
| | - Xiaoxia Su
- Biotechnology and Germplasm Resources Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yunnan Seed Laboratory, 2238# Beijing Rd, Panlong District, Kunming 650205, China; (Z.S.); (X.S.)
| | - Kuanyu Zheng
- Biotechnology and Germplasm Resources Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yunnan Seed Laboratory, 2238# Beijing Rd, Panlong District, Kunming 650205, China; (Z.S.); (X.S.)
| | - Zhongkai Zhang
- Biotechnology and Germplasm Resources Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yunnan Seed Laboratory, 2238# Beijing Rd, Panlong District, Kunming 650205, China; (Z.S.); (X.S.)
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Akbarimotlagh M, Azizi A, Shams-Bakhsh M, Jafari M, Ghasemzadeh A, Palukaitis P. Critical points for the design and application of RNA silencing constructs for plant virus resistance. Adv Virus Res 2023; 115:159-203. [PMID: 37173065 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aivir.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Control of plant virus diseases is a big challenge in agriculture as is resistance in plant lines to infection by viruses. Recent progress using advanced technologies has provided fast and durable alternatives. One of the most promising techniques against plant viruses that is cost-effective and environmentally safe is RNA silencing or RNA interference (RNAi), a technology that could be used alone or along with other control methods. To achieve the goals of fast and durable resistance, the expressed and target RNAs have been examined in many studies, with regard to the variability in silencing efficiency, which is regulated by various factors such as target sequences, target accessibility, RNA secondary structures, sequence variation in matching positions, and other intrinsic characteristics of various small RNAs. Developing a comprehensive and applicable toolbox for the prediction and construction of RNAi helps researchers to achieve the acceptable performance level of silencing elements. Although the attainment of complete prediction of RNAi robustness is not possible, as it also depends on the cellular genetic background and the nature of the target sequences, some important critical points have been discerned. Thus, the efficiency and robustness of RNA silencing against viruses can be improved by considering the various parameters of the target sequence and the construct design. In this review, we provide a comprehensive treatise regarding past, present and future prospective developments toward designing and applying RNAi constructs for resistance to plant viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Akbarimotlagh
- Plant Pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolbaset Azizi
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Masoud Shams-Bakhsh
- Plant Pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Jafari
- Department of Plant Protection, Higher Education Complex of Saravan, Saravan, Iran
| | - Aysan Ghasemzadeh
- Plant Pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Peter Palukaitis
- Department of Horticulture Sciences, Seoul Women's University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Yang X, Zhang L, Yang Y, Schmid M, Wang Y. miRNA Mediated Regulation and Interaction between Plants and Pathogens. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062913. [PMID: 33805611 PMCID: PMC7999934 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Plants have evolved diverse molecular mechanisms that enable them to respond to a wide range of pathogens. It has become clear that microRNAs, a class of short single-stranded RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the transcriptional or post-translational level, play a crucial role in coordinating plant-pathogen interactions. Specifically, miRNAs have been shown to be involved in the regulation of phytohormone signals, reactive oxygen species, and NBS-LRR gene expression, thereby modulating the arms race between hosts and pathogens. Adding another level of complexity, it has recently been shown that specific lncRNAs (ceRNAs) can act as decoys that interact with and modulate the activity of miRNAs. Here we review recent findings regarding the roles of miRNA in plant defense, with a focus on the regulatory modes of miRNAs and their possible applications in breeding pathogen-resistance plants including crops and trees. Special emphasis is placed on discussing the role of miRNA in the arms race between hosts and pathogens, and the interaction between disease-related miRNAs and lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Yang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Tree Breeding by Molecular Design, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (Y.Y.); (M.S.)
- National Engineering Laboratory for Tree Breeding, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
- College of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Lichun Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Tree Breeding by Molecular Design, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (Y.Y.); (M.S.)
- National Engineering Laboratory for Tree Breeding, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
- College of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuzhang Yang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Tree Breeding by Molecular Design, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (Y.Y.); (M.S.)
- National Engineering Laboratory for Tree Breeding, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
- College of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Markus Schmid
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Tree Breeding by Molecular Design, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (Y.Y.); (M.S.)
- Umeå Plant Science Centre, Department of Plant Physiology, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Yanwei Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Tree Breeding by Molecular Design, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (Y.Y.); (M.S.)
- National Engineering Laboratory for Tree Breeding, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
- College of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-010-62338105
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5
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Gaafar YZA, Ziebell H. Novel targets for engineering Physostegia chlorotic mottle and tomato brown rugose fruit virus-resistant tomatoes: in silico prediction of tomato microRNA targets. PeerJ 2020; 8:e10096. [PMID: 33194382 PMCID: PMC7597636 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physostegia chlorotic mottle virus (PhCMoV; genus: Alphanucleorhabdovirus, family: Rhabdoviridae) and tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV; genus: Tobamovirus, family: Virgaviridae) are newly emerging plant viruses that have a dramatic effect on tomato production. Among various known virus-control strategies, RNAi-mediated defence has shown the potential to protect plants against various pathogens including viral infections. Micro(mi)RNAs play a major role in RNAi-mediated defence. Methods Using in silico analyses, we investigated the possibility of tomato-encoded miRNAs (TomiRNA) to target PhCMoV and ToBRFV genomes using five different algorithms, i.e., miRanda, RNAhybrid, RNA22, Tapirhybrid and psRNATarget. Results The results revealed that 14 loci on PhCMoV and 10 loci on ToBRFV can be targeted by the TomiRNAs based on the prediction of at least three algorithms. Interestingly, one TomiRNA, miR6026, can target open reading frames from both viruses, i.e., the phosphoprotein encoding gene of PhCMoV, and the two replicase components of ToBRFV. There are currently no commercially available PhCMoV- or ToBRFV-resistant tomato varieties, therefore the predicted data provide useful information for the development of PhCMoV- and ToBFRV-resistant tomato plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahya Zakaria Abdou Gaafar
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) -Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Braunschweig, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Heiko Ziebell
- Institute for Epidemiology and Pathogen Diagnostics, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) -Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Braunschweig, Lower Saxony, Germany
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Liu Q, Li Y, Xu K, Li D, Hu H, Zhou F, Song P, Yu Y, Wei Q, Liu Q, Wang W, Bu R, Sun H, Wang X, Hao J, Li H, Li C. Clay nanosheet-mediated delivery of recombinant plasmids expressing artificial miRNAs via leaf spray to prevent infection by plant DNA viruses. HORTICULTURE RESEARCH 2020; 7:179. [PMID: 33328436 PMCID: PMC7603507 DOI: 10.1038/s41438-020-00400-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Whitefly-transmitted begomoviruses are economically important plant pathogens that cause severe problems in many crop plants, such as tomato, papaya, cotton, and tobacco. Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) is a typical monopartite begomovirus that has been extensively studied, but methods that can efficiently control begomoviruses are still scarce. In this study, we combined artificial microRNA (amiRNA)-mediated silencing technology and clay nanosheet-mediated delivery by spraying and developed a method for efficiently preventing TYLCV infection in tomato plants. We designed three amiRNAs that target different regions of TYLCV to silence virus-produced transcripts. Three plant expression vectors expressing pre-amiRNAs were constructed, and recombinant plasmid DNAs (pDNAs) were loaded onto nontoxic and degradable layered double hydroxide (LDH) clay nanosheets. LDH nanosheets containing multiple pDNAs were sprayed onto plant leaves. We found that the designed amiRNAs were significantly accumulated in leaves 7 days after spraying, while the pDNAs were sustainably detected for 35 days after the spray, suggesting that the LDH nanosheets released pDNAs in a sustained manner, protected pDNAs from degradation and efficiently delivered pDNAs into plant cells. Importantly, when the LDH nanosheets coated with pDNAs were sprayed onto plants infected by TYLCV, both the disease severity and TYLCV viral concentration in sprayed plants were significantly decreased during the 35 days, while the levels of H2O2 were significantly increased in those plants. Taken together, these results indicate that LDH nanosheets loaded with pDNAs expressing amiRNAs can be a sustainable and promising tool for begomovirus control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qili Liu
- Postdoctoral Research Base, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
- College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yanpeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp & Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kedong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Genetics and Molecular Breeding, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, China
| | - Dongxiao Li
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Haiyan Hu
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Feng Zhou
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Puwen Song
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yongang Yu
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Qichao Wei
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Qian Liu
- Postdoctoral Research Base, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Weipeng Wang
- Postdoctoral Research Base, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Ruifang Bu
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Haili Sun
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp & Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jianjun Hao
- School of Food and Agriculture, The University of Maine, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - Honglian Li
- College of Plant Protection, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Chengwei Li
- Postdoctoral Research Base, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China.
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Crop Genome Editing, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Plant Genetics and Molecular Breeding, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, China.
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Cisneros AE, Carbonell A. Artificial Small RNA-Based Silencing Tools for Antiviral Resistance in Plants. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9060669. [PMID: 32466363 PMCID: PMC7356032 DOI: 10.3390/plants9060669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Artificial small RNAs (art-sRNAs), such as artificial microRNAs (amiRNAs) and synthetic trans-acting small interfering RNAs (syn-tasiRNAs), are highly specific 21-nucleotide small RNAs designed to recognize and silence complementary target RNAs. Art-sRNAs are extensively used in gene function studies or for improving crops, particularly to protect plants against viruses. Typically, antiviral art-sRNAs are computationally designed to target one or multiple sites in viral RNAs with high specificity, and art-sRNA constructs are generated and introduced into plants that are subsequently challenged with the target virus(es). Numerous studies have reported the successful application of art-sRNAs to induce resistance against a large number of RNA and DNA viruses in model and crop species. However, the application of art-sRNAs as an antiviral tool has limitations, such as the difficulty to predict the efficacy of a particular art-sRNA or the emergence of virus variants with mutated target sites escaping to art-sRNA-mediated degradation. Here, we review the different classes, features, and uses of art-sRNA-based tools to induce antiviral resistance in plants. We also provide strategies for the rational design of antiviral art-sRNAs and discuss the latest advances in developing art-sRNA-based methodologies for enhanced resistance to plant viruses.
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Liang C, Hao J, Li J, Baker B, Luo L. Artificial microRNA-mediated resistance to cucumber green mottle mosaic virus in Nicotiana benthamiana. PLANTA 2019; 250:1591-1601. [PMID: 31388829 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-019-03252-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
MAIN CONCLUSION We describe a Nicotiana benthamiana system for rapid identification of artificial microRNA (amiRNA) to control cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) disease. Although artificial miRNA technology has been used to control other viral diseases, it has not been applied to reduce severe cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) disease and crop loss in the economically important cucurbits. We used our system to identify three amiRNAs targeting CGMMV RNA (amiR1-CP, amiR4-MP and amiR6-Rep) and show that their expression reduces CGMMV replication and disease in virus-infected plants. This work streamlines the process of generating amiRNA virus-resistant crops and can be broadly applied to identify active antiviral amiRNAs against a broad spectrum of viruses to control disease in diverse crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqiong Liang
- College of Plant Protection/Beijing Key Laboratory of Seed Disease Testing and Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
- College of Horticulture, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jianjun Hao
- School of Food and Agriculture, The University of Maine, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - Jianqiang Li
- College of Plant Protection/Beijing Key Laboratory of Seed Disease Testing and Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Barbara Baker
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- United States Department of Agriculture, Plant Gene Expression Center, Agricultural Research Service, Albany, CA, 94710, USA.
| | - Laixin Luo
- College of Plant Protection/Beijing Key Laboratory of Seed Disease Testing and Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Yu R, Chen C, Cao W, Liu H, Zhou S, Song Y, Zhu C. High-degree and broad-spectrum resistance mediated by a combination of NIb siRNA and miRNA suppresses replication of necrotic and common strains of potato virus Y. Arch Virol 2018; 163:3073-3081. [PMID: 30097746 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-018-3969-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In plants, viral replication can be inhibited through gene silencing, which is mediated by short interfering RNA (siRNA) or microRNA (miRNA). However, under natural conditions, viruses are extremely susceptible to mutations that may decrease the efficiency of cleavage of these small RNAs (sRNAs). Therefore, a single sRNA may not provide a sufficient degree of viral resistance to transgenic plants. Potato virus Y necrotic strain (PVYN) and Potato virus Y common strain (PVYO) are the two major PVY strains that cause systemic necrosis and mottling, respectively, in tobacco. In this study, we designed specific siRNAs and miRNAs to target two regions of the PVYO replicase gene (NIb). Eight plant expression vectors containing one or two sRNAs were constructed. Luciferase activity assays showed that the designed sRNAs successfully cleaved the NIb gene of PVYO and PVYN, and the vector carrying a combined siRNA- and miRNA-based short hairpin RNA (shRNA) demonstrated the strongest inhibitory effect. These effects were confirmed through the acquisition of PVYO and PVYN resistance in transgenic sRNA-expressing Nicotiana tabacum plants. This phenomenon could be related to a plant defense mechanism in which siRNA and miRNA pathways are complementary and interact to achieve gene silencing. Furthermore, there is a tendency for the homologous small RNA sequences (PVYO) to be more effective in conferring resistance than those with imperfect homology (PVYN). Overall, these findings confirm that the use of a combined siRNA- and miRNA-based shRNAs is a promising approach for introducing viral resistance to plants through genetic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Caixia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weilin Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shumei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunzhi Song
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Changxiang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Islam W, Qasim M, Noman A, Adnan M, Tayyab M, Farooq TH, Wei H, Wang L. Plant microRNAs: Front line players against invading pathogens. Microb Pathog 2018. [PMID: 29524548 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Plants are attacked by a large number of pathogens. To defend against these pathogens, plants activate or repress a vast array of genes. For genetic expression and reprogramming, host endogenous small RNAs (sRNAs) are the key factors. Among these sRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) mediate gene regulation through RNA silencing at the post-transcriptional level and play an essential role in the defense responses to biotic and abiotic stress. In the recent years, high-throughput sequencing has enabled the researchers to uncover the role of plant miRNAs during pathogen invasion. So here we have reviewed the recent research findings illustrating the plant miRNAs active involvement in various defense processes during fungal, bacterial, viral and nematode infections. However, rapid validation of direct targets of miRNAs is the dire need of time, which can be very helpful in improving the plant resistance against various pathogenic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqar Islam
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China; Govt. of Punjab, Agriculture Department, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Qasim
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China; State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Ali Noman
- College of Crop Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China; Department of Botany, Govt. College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Adnan
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China; State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Muhammad Tayyab
- College of Crop Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Taimoor Hassan Farooq
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Huang Wei
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Liande Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China; State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China; Key Laboratory of Integrated Pest Management for Fujian-Taiwan Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
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11
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Islam W, Noman A, Qasim M, Wang L. Plant Responses to Pathogen Attack: Small RNAs in Focus. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E515. [PMID: 29419801 PMCID: PMC5855737 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 02/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Small RNAs (sRNA) are a significant group of gene expression regulators for multiple biological processes in eukaryotes. In plants, many sRNA silencing pathways produce extensive array of sRNAs with specialized roles. The evidence on record advocates for the functions of sRNAs during plant microbe interactions. Host sRNAs are reckoned as mandatory elements of plant defense. sRNAs involved in plant defense processes via different pathways include both short interfering RNA (siRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) that actively regulate immunity in response to pathogenic attack via tackling pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and other effectors. In response to pathogen attack, plants protect themselves with the help of sRNA-dependent immune systems. That sRNA-mediated plant defense responses play a role during infections is an established fact. However, the regulations of several sRNAs still need extensive research. In this review, we discussed the topical advancements and findings relevant to pathogen attack and plant defense mediated by sRNAs. We attempted to point out diverse sRNAs as key defenders in plant systems. It is hoped that sRNAs would be exploited as a mainstream player to achieve food security by tackling different plant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqar Islam
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
| | - Ali Noman
- Department of Botany, Government College University, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan.
- College of Crop Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
| | - Muhammad Qasim
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
| | - Liande Wang
- College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
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12
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Liu SR, Zhou JJ, Hu CG, Wei CL, Zhang JZ. MicroRNA-Mediated Gene Silencing in Plant Defense and Viral Counter-Defense. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1801. [PMID: 28979248 PMCID: PMC5611411 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs of approximately 20–24 nucleotides in length that serve as central regulators of eukaryotic gene expression by targeting mRNAs for cleavage or translational repression. In plants, miRNAs are associated with numerous regulatory pathways in growth and development processes, and defensive responses in plant–pathogen interactions. Recently, significant progress has been made in understanding miRNA-mediated gene silencing and how viruses counter this defense mechanism. Here, we summarize the current knowledge and recent advances in understanding the roles of miRNAs involved in the plant defense against viruses and viral counter-defense. We also document the application of miRNAs in plant antiviral defense. This review discusses the current understanding of the mechanisms of miRNA-mediated gene silencing and provides insights on the never-ending arms race between plants and viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Rui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, Anhui Agricultural UniversityHefei, China
| | - Jing-Jing Zhou
- College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Chun-Gen Hu
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan, China
| | - Chao-Ling Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, Anhui Agricultural UniversityHefei, China
| | - Jin-Zhi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology (Ministry of Education), College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan, China
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13
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Tian B, Li J, Oakley TR, Todd TC, Trick HN. Host-Derived Artificial MicroRNA as an Alternative Method to Improve Soybean Resistance to Soybean Cyst Nematode. Genes (Basel) 2016; 7:E122. [PMID: 27941644 PMCID: PMC5192498 DOI: 10.3390/genes7120122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The soybean cyst nematode (SCN), Heterodera glycines, is one of the most important pests limiting soybean production worldwide. Novel approaches to managing this pest have focused on gene silencing of target nematode sequences using RNA interference (RNAi). With the discovery of endogenous microRNAs as a mode of gene regulation in plants, artificial microRNA (amiRNA) methods have become an alternative method for gene silencing, with the advantage that they can lead to more specific silencing of target genes than traditional RNAi vectors. To explore the application of amiRNAs for improving soybean resistance to SCN, three nematode genes (designated as J15, J20, and J23) were targeted using amiRNA vectors. The transgenic soybean hairy roots, transformed independently with these three amiRNA vectors, showed significant reductions in SCN population densities in bioassays. Expression of the targeted genes within SCN eggs were downregulated in populations feeding on transgenic hairy roots. Our results provide evidence that host-derived amiRNA methods have great potential to improve soybean resistance to SCN. This approach should also limit undesirable phenotypes associated with off-target effects, which is an important consideration for commercialization of transgenic crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Tian
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
- Bayer CropScience, 3500 Paramount Pkwy, Morrisville, NC 27560, USA.
| | - Thomas R Oakley
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Timothy C Todd
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
| | - Harold N Trick
- Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
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14
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Fondong VN, Nagalakshmi U, Dinesh-Kumar SP. Novel Functional Genomics Approaches: A Promising Future in the Combat Against Plant Viruses. PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2016; 106:1231-1239. [PMID: 27392181 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-03-16-0145-fi] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Advances in functional genomics and genome editing approaches have provided new opportunities and potential to accelerate plant virus control efforts through modification of host and viral genomes in a precise and predictable manner. Here, we discuss application of RNA-based technologies, including artificial micro RNA, transacting small interfering RNA, and Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-associated protein 9), which are currently being successfully deployed in generating virus-resistant plants. We further discuss the reverse genetics approach, targeting induced local lesions in genomes (TILLING) and its variant, known as EcoTILLING, that are used in the identification of plant virus recessive resistance gene alleles. In addition to describing specific applications of these technologies in plant virus control, this review discusses their advantages and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent N Fondong
- First author: Department of Biological Sciences, Delaware State University, Dover; second author: Department of Plant Biology, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis; and third author: Department of Plant Biology and The Genome Center, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis
| | - Ugrappa Nagalakshmi
- First author: Department of Biological Sciences, Delaware State University, Dover; second author: Department of Plant Biology, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis; and third author: Department of Plant Biology and The Genome Center, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis
| | - Savithramma P Dinesh-Kumar
- First author: Department of Biological Sciences, Delaware State University, Dover; second author: Department of Plant Biology, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis; and third author: Department of Plant Biology and The Genome Center, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis
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15
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Mitter N, Zhai Y, Bai AX, Chua K, Eid S, Constantin M, Mitchell R, Pappu HR. Evaluation and identification of candidate genes for artificial microRNA-mediated resistance to tomato spotted wilt virus. Virus Res 2016; 211:151-8. [PMID: 26454192 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) is an economically important viral pathogen of a wide range of field and horticultural crops. We developed an artificial microRNA (amiRNA) strategy against TSWV, targeting the nucleoprotein (N) and silencing suppressor (NSs) genes. The amiRNA constructs replaced the natural miRNA in a shortened Arabidopsis 173-nucleotide (nt) miR159a precursor backbone (athmiR159a) without the stem base extending beyond the miR/miR* duplex. Further, each amiRNA was modified to contain a mismatch (wobble) sequence at nucleotide position 12 and 13 on the complementary strand amiRNA*, mimicking the endogenous miR159a sequence structure. Transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana demonstrated that the introduction of a wobble sequence did not alter amiRNA expression levels. Following challenge inoculation with TSWV, plants expressing N-specific amiRNAs with or without the wobble remained asymptomatic and were negative for TSWV by ELISA. In contrast, plants expressing the NSs-specific amiRNAs were symptomatic and accumulated high levels of TSWV. Similar findings were obtained in stably transformed Nicotiana tabacum plants. Our results show that a shortened 173-nt athmiR159a backbone is sufficient to express amiRNAs and that the presence of mismatch at position 12-13 does not influence amiRNA expression or conferring of resistance. We also show that selection of target gene and positional effect are critical in amiRNA-based approach for introducing resistance. These findings open the possibility of employing the amiRNA approach for broad-spectrum resistance to tospoviruses as well as other viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neena Mitter
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Ying Zhai
- Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Anh Xu Bai
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Keith Chua
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Sahar Eid
- Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Myrna Constantin
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Roger Mitchell
- Queensland Agricultural Biotechnology Centre, University of Queensland, Ritchie Building, Research Road, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Hanu R Pappu
- Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
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