Structure, target-specificity and expression of PN_LNC_N13, a long non-coding RNA differentially expressed in apomictic and sexual Paspalum notatum

• DOI: 10.1007/s11103-017-0679-4
• Publication Date: 2017-11-07T23:35:41Z
• Authors: Ana Ochogavía; Giulio Galla; José Guillermo Seijo; Ana María González; Michele Bellucci; Fulvio Pupilli; Gianni Barcaccia; Emidio Albertini; Silvina Pessino
• Keywords: Apomixis; Paspalum notatum

KEY MESSAGE: ncRNA PN_LNC_N13 shows contrasting expression in reproductive organs of sexual and apomictic Paspalum notatum genotypes. Apomictic plants set genetically maternal seeds whose embryos derive by parthenogenesis from unreduced egg cells, giving rise to clonal offspring. Several apomixis related genes were identified prior work comparative transcriptome analyses. Here, one these candidates (namely N13) was characterized. N13 belongs a gene family including 30-60 members, which at least eight are expressed moderate levels florets. The sequences show no functional ORFs, but include segments different protein coding genes. Particularly, partial identity maize BT068773 (RESPONSE REGULATOR 6). Secondary structure predictions as well mature miRNA target cleavage detection suggested that is not precursor. Moreover, members produce abundant 24-nucleotide small RNAs along extensive parts their sequences. Surveys the GREENC CANTATA databases indicated similarity with plant long non-coding (lncRNAs) involved splicing regulation; consequently, renamed PN_LNC_N13. predicted ortholog (N13TAR) originates floral transcript variants shorter than canonical isoform possible structural differences between types. only displays quantitative representation variation across developmental stages. However, PN_LNC_N13-like homologs and/or its derived sRNAs showed overall higher ovules late premeiosis. Our results suggest existence whole N13-like lncRNAs possibly regulation, some characterized differential activity