MicroRNAs as Biotechnological Targets for Future Food Security and Agricultural Sustainability
Lijie Li, Haifang Dai, Runrun Sun, Zhiyong Zhang, Baohong Zhang
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression, playing key roles in plant growth, development, and stress responses. Their regulatory functions make miRNAs ideal targets for enhancing crop yield, quality, and stress tolerance using biotechnologies, such as transgenic overexpression and CRISPR/Cas genome editing. By targeting multiple genes, miRNAs address complex agricultural challenges effectively. This review focuses on the diverse roles of miRNAs in enhancing crop productivity and resilience; miRNAs are an important biotechnological target for ensuring food security and agricultural sustainability. We also highlight transgenic and CRISPR/Cas genome editing approaches to demonstrate miRNA-driven trait improvements, such as drought/salinity tolerance, pest resistance, and nutrient use efficiency. Due to the quick development of advanced biotechnology tools, both upregulated and downregulated miRNAs can be manipulated for optimizing agronomic traits. Challenges including off-target effects, regulatory barriers, and environmental concerns are analyzed with strategies proposed to overcome them. By leveraging miRNA technologies, this perspective emphasizes their transformative potentials in achieving sustainable agriculture and global food security.