amiRNA technology and its applications in alimentary crop genetic improvement

Endogenous miRNAs (microRNAs) are key factors which negatively regulate gene expression in eukaryotes. amiRNAs (artificial miRNAs) are the artificial miRNAs which are synthesized by simulating the synthesis pathway of endogenous miRNAs. amiRNAs can effectively inhibit the expression of target genes.Application of amiRNA technology in the regulation of gene expression has significant advantages in accuracy, efficiency, genetic stability and biology security. In this review, the principle and advantages of amiRNA technique, and the applications in alimentary crop quality improvement, nutrition improvement, male sterile lines breeding, anti-viral and anti-adversity crop breeding were summarized.