lncRNAs in Plant and Animal Sexual Reproduction

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts over 200 base pairs in length with no discernible protein-coding potential. Multiple lines of evidence point to lncRNAs as master regulators, controlling the expression of protein-coding genes. Studies in plants and animals consistently show high expression of lncRNAs in reproductive organs in a cell- and tissue-specific manner. Sexual reproduction is a complex process that involves cell fate specification and specialized cell division requiring precise coordination of gene expression in response to intrinsic and extrinsic signals. The roles of lncRNAs as master regulators of gene expression and chromatin organization might make them particularly suited for coordination and control of molecular processes involved in sexual reproduction.