Genetic Aspects and Molecular Causes of Seed Longevity in Plants—A Review

Abstract

Seed longevity is the most important trait related to the management of gene banks because it governs the regeneration cycle of seeds. Thus, seed longevity is a quantitative trait. Prior to the discovery of molecular markers, classical genetic studies have been performed to identify the genetic determinants of this trait. Post-2000 saw the use of DNA-based molecular markers and modern biotechnological tools, including RNA sequence (RNA-seq) analysis, to understand the genetic factors determining seed longevity. This review summarizes the most important and relevant genetic studies performed in Arabidopsis (24 reports), rice (25 reports), barley (4 reports), wheat (9 reports), maize (8 reports), soybean (10 reports), tobacco (2 reports), lettuce (1 report) and tomato (3 reports), in chronological order, after discussing some classical studies. The major genes identified and their probable roles, where available, are debated in each case. We conclude by providing information about many different collections of various crops available worldwide for advanced research on seed longevity. Finally, the use of new emerging technologies, including RNA-seq, in seed longevity research is emphasized by providing relevant examples.

Exploring Biotechnological Insights into the Variability of Seed Germination in Platanus orientalis L. within the Kashmir Himalayas

“…Future studies could focus on investigating the speci c physiological and molecular changes occurring in seeds during ripening and the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the loss of viability over time. This would provide valuable insights for seed conservation efforts, agricultural practices, and the management of plant populations (Arif et al 2022).…”

Choosing the Right Path for the Successful Storage of Seeds

“…Consequently, there is a huge need for new biochemical or molecular markers of seed viability that improve the process of monitoring plant material during storage in gene banks and to help with the understanding of the concomitant aging process occurring in seeds. These studies have developed rapidly over the last decade and substantiate the importance of volatile organic compounds [ 94 , 95 , 98 ], proteomic studies [ 191 ], RNA integrity [ 192 , 193 , 194 , 195 , 196 ] and DNA damage markers or epigenetic marks [ 96 , 97 , 99 , 190 , 197 , 198 , 199 , 200 ] that are highly promising and should be more widely explored.…”

Seed-to-Seedling Transition: Novel Aspects

“…Next, Arif et al [ 21 ] reviewed the genetic aspects of seed longevity and their relationship with seedling viability. The authors defined seed longevity as “the maximum time period during which seeds can germinate and produce viable seedlings capable of developing into healthy plants and bearing seeds for the next generation.” The authors summarized the most relevant genetic studies on seed longevity performed in Arabidopsis and some crop species such as rice, barley, wheat, maize, soybean, tobacco, lettuce, and tomato.…”