Molecular Research Progress of Rice Panicle Development

Panicle architecture is an important component in plant architecture in rice (Oryza sativa L); panicle architecture is also a key ingredient that could influence yield. The process of panicle formation involves a series of complicated physiological and biochemical processes including the development of axillary meristems, the establishment of inflorescence and the formation of seeds, panicle formation is a systemic process regulated by many interlinking genes. In this review, the general progress of the development of a rice panicle is introduced. Genes that have great influences on panicle development are categorized according to their different regulatory mechanisms. Genes function in the plant hormone signaling pathway may also influence panicle architecture, and miRNA-mediated regulations of panicle development are discussed.