Rapid alkalinization factor (RALF) is widespread throughout the plant kingdom and controls many aspects of plant life. Current studies on the regulatory mechanism underlying RALF function mainly focus on Arabidopsis, but little is known about the role of RALF in crop plants. Here, we systematically and comprehensively analyzed the relation between RALF family genes from five important crops and those in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Simultaneously, we summarized the functions of RALFs in controlling growth and developmental behavior using conservative motifs as cues and predicted the regulatory role of RALFs in cereal crops. In conclusion, RALF has considerable application potential in improving crop yields and increasing economic benefits. Using gene editing technology or taking advantage of RALF as a hormone additive are effective way to amplify the role of RALF in crop plants.

快速碱化因子（RALF）广泛存在于整个植物界，控制着植物生命的许多方面。目前关于RALF功能调控机制的研究主要集中在拟南芥中，但对于RALF在农作物中的作用知之甚少。在此，我们系统、全面地分析了五种重要作物的RALF家族基因与模式植物拟南芥中RALF家族基因的关系。同时，我们以保守基序为线索总结了 RALF 在控制生长和发育行为中的功能，并预测了 RALF 在谷类作物中的调节作用。综上所述，RALF在提高作物产量、增加经济效益方面具有巨大的应用潜力。利用基因编辑技术或利用RALF作为激素添加剂是放大RALF在作物中作用的有效途径。