Quantitative Trait Loci, Epigenetics, Sugars, and MicroRNAs: Quaternaries in Phosphate Acquisition and Use

Significant research efforts in the genomics of P stress have shown that many suites of genes regulated in a coordinated fashion are involved in plant acclimatization to P deficiency. These genomic studies, in conjunction with traditional plant breeding, have shown that P-acclimatization traits are controlled by multiple genes, most probably in quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Future development of near isogenic lines (NILs) and recombinant inbred lines (RILs) coupled to next-generation sequencing will facilitate the cloning of genes in QTLs regulating P-deficiency acclimatization. Defining the role of epigenetic regulation of gene expression in adaptation to abiotic stress will provide new targets for improving plant adaptation to P starvation. Cross talk between sugars, microRNAs (miRNAs), and P-starvation-induced gene expression may be significant to understanding the fundamental underpinning of plant adaptation to nutrient stresses. Plants with highly efficient P acquisition and use could reduce the need for P fertilizer in the developed world, thereby ameliorating the overuse of P while concurrently enhancing yield in the developing world, where P is frequently unavailable.