The plant epitranscriptome: revisiting pseudouridine and 2′-O-methyl RNA modifications

There is growing evidence that post-transcriptional RNA modifications are highly dynamic and can be used to improve crop production. Although more than 172 unique types of RNA modifications have been identified throughout the kingdom of life, we are yet to leverage upon the understanding to optimize RNA modifications in crops to improve productivity. The contributions of internal mRNA modifications such as N6-methyladenosine (m(6)A) and 5-methylcytosine (m(5)C) methylations to embryonic development, root development, leaf morphogenesis, flowering, fruit ripening and stress response are sufficiently known, but the roles of the two most abundant RNA modifications, pseudouridine (Psi) and 2'-O-methylation (Nm), in the cell remain unclear due to insufficient advances in high-throughput technologies in plant development. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the latest methods and insights gained in mapping internal Psi and Nm and their unique properties in plants and other organisms. In addition, we discuss the limitations that remain in high-throughput technologies for qualitative and quantitative mapping of these RNA modifications and highlight future challenges in regulating the plant epitranscriptome.

Automated summary

There is growing evidence that post-transcriptional RNA modifications can greatly impact crop production. However, the roles of the abundant RNA modifications of pseudouridine and 2'-O-methylation in plants remain unclear. This review discusses the latest methods and insights gained in mapping these modifications in plants, as well as the limitations in current high-throughput technologies. Future challenges in regulating the plant epitranscriptome are also highlighted.