Understanding the Micro RNA Mediated Regulation of Plant - Microbe Interaction and Scope for Regulation of Abiotic and Biotic Stress Tolerance in Plants

Small RNA (sRNA) like microRNAs, are generally non-coding, minute (< 200 nucleotide) polymeric molecules that are conserved through-out the living organisms. Being a vital component of inter-kingdom or cross-kingdom interactions, sRNAs can modulate gene expression during plant-microbe interaction at transcriptional as well as post-transcriptional levels. From initiation of defense expression to creating and maintaining symbiotic relationships, sRNAs regulate each aspect of the growth and development of host and microbes. Beyond doubt, sRNAs have proven their potential to regulate gene expressions associated with microbes including plant growth-promoting bacteria during multiple abiotic and biotic stresses. Under the influence of beneficial symbiotic relationships, the growth, productivity, and yield of crop plants are also affected. sRNA-mediated blend of natural and modern approaches exhibits promising effectivity in reinforcing agricultural sustainability. A transgenic study on the role of sRNA explains its potential to create more tolerant and resistant varieties via overexpression and RNAi silencing mechanism-mediated plant-microbe interactions. However, there are still fewer studies deciphering their role in maintaining plant-microbe interaction and creating tolerance intervened by symbiotic interactions. A detailed investigation regarding the potential of plant-microbe interaction for the regulation of abiotic stresses and biotic stresses in plants is still required. Thus, the present article presents the recent findings concerning the need and role of non-coding sRNA in establishing plant-microbe interactions, genetic regulation going on during interaction, and symbiotic interaction mediated plant tolerance against various environmental stresses.