REGULATORY NON-CODING RNAS AS DETERMINANTS OF MALE STERILITY IN GRASSES AND OTHER MONOCOTYLEDONOUS PLANTS

摘要

A method for controlling male fertility of a plant comprises regulating a biological activity of a phasiRNA in a male reproductive organ of the plant. The phasiRNA is selected from the group consisting of 21-nt phasiRNAs and 24-nt phasiRNAs. The male fertility of the plant is thereby increased or decreased. Preferably, the plant is a monocotyledon and becomes male sterile. The resulting male sterile plant and its uses are also provided.