Abstract: The present application discloses plant polynucleotides, their encoded polypeptide sequences, and sRNA sequences which are putative regulators of long-distance florigenic signaling and flowering control. Methods of use of these sequences related to long-distance florigenic signaling are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a polynucleotide sequence encoding a component of the protein machinery involved in small RNA trafficking, Cucurbita maxima phloem small RNA-binding protein (CmPSRB 1), and the corresponding polypeptide sequence. The invention also provides genetic constructs and transgenic plants comprising the polynucleotide sequence encoding a phloem small RNA-binding protein to alter (e.g., prevent, reduce or elevate) non-cell autonomous signaling events in the plants involving small RNA metabolism. These signaling events are involved in a broad spectrum of plant physiological and biochemical processes, including, for example, systemic resistance to pathogens, responses to environmental stresses, e.g., heat, drought, salinity, and systemic gene silencing (e.g., viral infections).

Abstract: The present application discloses plant polynucleotides, their encoded polypeptide sequences, and sRNA sequences which are putative regulators of long-distance florigenic signaling and flowering control. Methods of using these sequences related to long-distance florigenic signalling, including modifying the occurrence, timing and extent of flower development by modulating the florigenic signaling pathway, are also disclosed.

Abstract: Systemic translocation of RNA exerts non-cell-autonomous epigenetic control over plant development and defense. The present invention provides a polynucleotide sequence encoding a component of the protein machinery involved in small RNA trafficking, Cucurbita maxima PHLOEM SMALL RNA-BINDING PROTEIN1 (CmPSRB1), and the corresponding polypeptide sequence. Homologs of the disclosed sequences exist in other plant species. The invention also provides polynucleotide sequences of phloem small RNAs involved in signaling. Methods are also provided for using these PSRB1 and small RNA sequences and genetic constructs comprising these sequences to alter (e.g., prevent, reduce or elevate) non-cell autonomous signaling events in plants involving small RNA metabolism. These signaling events are involved in a broad spectrum of plant physiological and biochemical processes, including, for example, flowering, coordination of plant growth and development, systemic resistance to pathogens, responses to environmental stresses, e.