Small RNAs (sRNAs) are mainly classified into microRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) according to their origin. miRNAs originate from single-stranded RNA precursors, whereas siRNAs originate from double-stranded RNA precursors that are synthesized by RNA-dependent RNA polymerases. Both of single-stranded and double-stranded RNA precursors are processed into sRNAs by Dicer-like proteins. Then, the sRNAs are loaded into ARGONAUTE proteins, forming RNA-induced silencing complexes (RISCs). The RISCs repress the expression of target genes with sequences complementary to the sRNAs through the cleavage of transcripts, the inhibition of translation or DNA methylation. Here, we summarize the recent progress of sRNA pathway in the interactions of rice with various parasitic organisms, including fungi, viruses, bacteria, as well as insects. Besides, we also discuss the hormone signal in sRNA pathway, and the emerging roles of circular RNAs and long non-coding RNAs in rice immunity. Obviously, small RNA pathway may act as a part of rice innate immunity to coordinate with growth and development.

小RNA（sRNA）根据来源主要分为微小RNA（miRNA）和小干扰RNA（siRNA）。 miRNA 源自单链 RNA 前体，而 siRNA 源自由 RNA 依赖性 RNA 聚合酶合成的双链 RNA 前体。单链和双链 RNA 前体均被 Dicer 样蛋白加工成 sRNA。然后，sRNA 被加载到 ARGONAUTE 蛋白中，形成 RNA 诱导的沉默复合物 (RISC)。 RISC 通过切割转录物、抑制翻译或 DNA 甲基化来抑制具有与 sRNA 互补序列的靶基因的表达。在此，我们总结了sRNA途径在水稻与各种寄生生物（包括真菌、病毒、细菌和昆虫）相互作用中的最新进展。此外，我们还讨论了 sRNA 途径中的激素信号，以及环状 RNA 和长链非编码 RNA 在水稻免疫中的新兴作用。显然，小RNA途径可能作为水稻先天免疫的一部​​分来协调生长发育。