Microrna Function In Seed Biology

The involvement of microRNA (miRNA) in various developmental programs in plants, such as leaf and flower development, and the response of plants to biotic and abiotic stresses, has been characterized. Information on the involvement of miRNA in seed biology is limited, but emerging. miRNAs and transcription factors or other genes that are targeted by miRNA are expressed during embryogenesis, seed maturation, imbibition, and seedling establishment, suggesting that the downregulation of target genes by miRNA may play a critical role in seed development and germination. This chapter focuses on the biological function of miRNA and miRNA-targeted genes involved in seed formation, the sensitivity of mature seeds to plant hormones, and postembryonic seedling development.