MicroRNA miR396, GRF transcription factors and GIF co-regulators: a conserved plant growth regulatory module with potential for breeding and biotechnology

•The miR396–GRF/GIF network regulates plant growth and development in angiosperms.•GRFs and GIFs promote growth via cell proliferation and/or expansion.•Physiological traits and stress response are also controlled by the miR396–GRF/GIF module.•Mechanisms underlying the activity of the miR396–GRF/GIF network are starting to be unravelled.•Recent work has shown the power of the module to enhance yield in crops.