Non-coding RNAs and leaf senescence: Small molecules with important roles

Abstract

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a special class of functional RNA molecules that are not translated into proteins. ncRNAs have emerged as pivotal regulators of diverse developmental processes in plants. Recent investigations have revealed the association of ncRNAs with the regulation of leaf senescence, a complex and tightly regulated developmental process. However, a comprehensive review of the involvement of ncRNAs in the regulation of leaf senescence is still lacking. This manuscript aims to summarize the molecular mechanisms underlying ncRNAs-mediated leaf senescence and the potential applications of ncRNAs to manipulate the onset and progression of leaf senescence. Various classes of ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are discussed in terms of their regulatory mechanisms in leaf senescence. Furthermore, we explore the interactions between ncRNA and the key regulators of senescence, including transcription factors as well as core components in phytohormone signaling pathways. We also discuss the possible challenges and approaches related to ncRNA-mediated leaf senescence. This review contributes to a further understanding of the intricate regulatory network involving ncRNAs in leaf senescence.

Keywords: Regulatory network; Transcription factor; leaf senescence; ncRNA.