ABSTRACT
In the past few years, bacterial small RNAs (sRNAs) have been established as key regulatory intermediates in the microbe-microbe as well as host-microbe interactions, involved in processes such as gene-expression regulation, stress modulation, quorum sensing, virulence, pathogenicity, and many others. A crosstalk between the regulatory molecules that can significantly influence the plant root morphology and development in the presence of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria is well-established. In various plant-associated bacteria, sRNAs play a pivotal role in plant-microbe interactions. In order to exploit the beneficial impact of these sRNAs, it is essential to carry out their functional characterization during such interactions. The elucidation of the regulatory roles of the sRNAs, to enhance abiotic stress endurance capabilities and improve PGPR traits, will promote the relevance of PGPRs as potential biofertilizer candidate. Recently, secretion of sRNAs in the form of nano-vesicles have been observed. This heralds a new field of research, i.e. use of sRNA containing nano-vesicles in interkingdom communication.
