Pentatricopeptide-repeat proteins (PPRs) are characterized by tandem arrays of a degenerate 35-aminoacid (PPR motifs), which can bind RNA strands and participate in post-transcription. PPR proteins family is one of the largest families in land plants and play important roles in organelle RNA metabolism and plant development. However, the functions of PPR genes involved in biotic and abiotic stresses of rice (Oryza sativa L.) remain largely unknown. |