Enhanced microRNA accumulation and gene silencing efficiency through optimized precursor base pairing.

ABSTRACT: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous 21-nucleotide small RNAs that direct sequence-specific silencing of complementary messenger RNAs to regulate a wide range of biological processes. In plants, miRNA precursors are processed from imperfect foldback structures by the RNase III enzyme DICER-LIKE1, in coordination with accessory proteins. While mismatches flanking the miRNA/miRNA* duplex in endogenous precursors can strongly influence miRNA accumulation, their impact has not been thoroughly examined in the context of artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs) used for targeted gene silencing in plants. Here, using silencing sensor systems in Nicotiana benthamiana, we systematically investigated how base pairing at or near DCL1 cleavage sites affects amiRNA production from the recently described minimal shc pr

SUBMITTER: Llorens-Gamez JJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12782649 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature