microRNA-mediated regulation in fruit quality

Fruits, the reproductive organs in flowering plants, are an important source of food for humans. Complete fruit development and ripening featuring by a remarkable phenotypic plasticity are orchestrated by versatile genetic factors. microRNAs (miRNAs) and phased secondary small interfering RNA (phasiRNAs) play central roles in regulating diverse biological processes via transcriptionally or post-transcriptionally modulating the expression of target genes. Apart from their conserved function in model plants, miRNA/phasiRNA-mediated regulation has been widely investigated in fruit crops, with many novel molecular mechanisms. Here, we survey the regulatory mechanisms and biological functions of miRNAs and phasiRNAs in fruit development, with a particular focus on their roles in fruit quality formation. We also discuss their potential application in improving fruit quality.