植物发生变异或分化的本质是基因表达模式发生变化的结果, 而基因表达多是在转录水平进行调控的。文章通过分析总结前人在这一领域内的大量研究成果, 系统地从遗传学（genetics）和表观遗传学（epigenetics）两个角度对植物基因在转录水平上的调控方式及其生物学意义进行了总结性阐述, 分析了这一研究领域目前所面临的挑战, 展望了该领域今后的发展及应用前景。

A change of gene expression pattern, especially at a transcriptional level, is one of the most important motivities for plant variation. In this study, the modes of gene transcriptional regulation in plant were systematically described from genetics and epigenetics aspects, respectively, as well as their significances to plant divergence and evolution. Based on the current knowledge, the prospects, applications and problems in this area were analyzed.