Epigenetic regulation by long noncoding RNAs in plants

Many eukaryotes, including plants, produce a large number of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Growing number of lncRNAs are being reported to have regulatory roles in various developmental processes. Emerging mechanisms underlying the function of lncRNAs indicate that lncRNAs are versatile regulatory molecules. They function as potent cis- and trans-regulators of gene expression, including the formation of modular scaffolds that recruit chromatin-modifying complexes to target chromatin. LncRNAs have also been reported in plants. Here, we describe our current understanding on potential roles of lncRNA in plants.