Characterization of microRNAs, phasiRNAs and hc-siRNAs in Citrus sinensis during Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus infection
摘要
MicroRNAs, phasiRNAs and hc-siRNAs are important small RNAs that contribute significantly to post-transcriptional regulation and plant immunity. The role of microRNAs, phasiRNAs, and hc-siRNAs in Citrus sinensis during Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) infection remains uncertain. In our research, we thoroughly identified and assessed microRNAs, phasiRNAs, and hc-siRNAs through deep sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. We also estimated the target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs and conducted enrichment analysis of these genes in C. sinensis in response to CLas infection. In our analysis, we discovered 121 miRNAs, 352 phasiRNAs, and 93,162 hc-siRNAs. A total of 43 mature miRNAs and 55 phasiRNAs demonstrated differential expression between CLas-free and -infected samples. In addition, we identified target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs. Our enrichment investigation of target genes indicated significant associations with pathways related to ATPase activity, nucleoside-triphosphatase activity, pyrophosphatase activity, hydrolase activity, and carbohydrate metabolism. Our research not only enhances our comprehension of the biological functions of these small RNAs, but also offers novel perspectives on the mechanisms underpinning the citrus-CLas interaction.