Essential RNA-Based Technologies and Their Applications in Plant Functional Genomics

Genome sequencing has not only extended our understanding of the blueprints of many plant species but has also revealed the secrets of coding and non-coding genes. We present here a brief introduction to and personal account of key RNA-based technologies, as well as their development and applications for functional genomics of plant coding and non-coding genes, with a focus on short tandem target mimics (STTMs), artificial microRNAs (amiRNAs), and CRISPR/Cas9. In addition, their use in multiplex technologies for the functional dissection of gene networks is discussed.

TrendsRNA-based technologies are an essential toolbox for functional genomics in plants.We focus on technologies involving STTMs, amiRNAs/tasiRNAs, and sgRNA-guided genome editing.The article offers insights into how to improve RNA-based genome technologies, and their applications for functional discovery of coding and non-coding genes and their networks.