Phloem RNA-binding proteins as potential components of the long-distance RNA transport system

[EN] RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) govern a myriad of different essential processes in eukaryotic cells. Recent evidence reveals that apart from playing critical roles in RNA metabolism and RNA transport, RBPs perform a key function in plant adaptation to various environmental conditions. Long-distance RNA transport occurs in land plants through the phloem, a conducting tissue that integrates the wide range of signaling pathways required to regulate plant development and response to stress processes. The macromolecules in the phloem pathway vary greatly and include defense proteins, transcription factors, chaperones acting in long-distance trafficking, and RNAs (mRNAs, siRNAs, and miRNAs). How these RNA molecules translocate through the phloem is not well understood, but recent evidence indicates the presence of translocatable RBPs in the phloem, which act as potential components of long-distance RNA transport system. This review updates our knowledge on the characteristics and functions of RBPs present in the phloem.This study has been supported by Grant B10201 1-25018 from the Spanish Granting Agency (Direccion General de Investigacion Cientifica) and from the PROMETEO Programme 2011/003 from the GeneralitalN'alenciana.Pallás Benet, V.; Gomez ., GG. (2013). Phloem RNA-binding proteins as potential components of the long-distance RNA transport system. Frontiers in Plant Science. 4(130):1-6. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2013.00130S16413