Classification and Biological Function of ncRNAs (lncRNAs and circRNAs) in Plants

Year 2025, Volume: 11 Issue: 1-2, 17 - 25, 29.12.2025

Abdil Hakan Eren

Abstract

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are molecules that play important biological roles in plant growth but lack coding capacity. They are widely distributed in all living species. The advancement of high-throughput sequencing technology (RNA-seq) has enabled the identification of various ncRNAs. Their activities and mechanisms of action have become increasingly clear. Recent studies indicate that ncRNAs are critical for plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stress. In particular, elucidating miRNA-lncRNA-circRNA interaction processes will help identify genetic adaptations in plant stress resistance. The categorization of lncRNAs, their roles, and mechanisms in plant responses to environmental challenges are briefly summarized. The functions of ncRNAs in root and leaf development, plant growth and development, dormancy, germination, and flower formation are emphasized. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) function as sponges, precursors, scaffolds, and regulatory complexes, and serve as transcription factors (TFs) and chromatin modification structures. lncRNAs serve as regulators in epigenetics and significantly influence processes such as chromatin network remodeling and DNA methylation.

Keywords

non-coding RNA , lncRNA , circRNA , intronic , stress

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