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.
Highlights
Sustainable agriculture depends on the judicial use of natural resources, including use of crop varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases and do not require pesticide spraying, providing environmental benefits in addition to fulfilling the energy requirements of mankind
Very little is known about the genetic basis of differences in seed quality because this trait is strongly affected by environmental factors during seed formation, harvest, and storage and is probably controlled by many genes
This review focuses on the genetic determinants of seed longevity in a variety of plant species after describing classical genetic studies
Summary
Sustainable agriculture depends on the judicial use of natural resources, including use of crop varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases and do not require pesticide spraying, providing environmental benefits in addition to fulfilling the energy requirements of mankind. Climate change has posed an extinction threat to 8% of the 250,000 species of flowering plants by 2025 To arrest this calamity, plant genetic resources are stored and regenerated in >1750 gene banks storing >7,000,000 accessions [2]. In addition to many other features, seed longevity is influenced by pre-storage and storage conditions and the genetic and physiological storage potential of seeds. Damage to seed quality can be categorized into either short-term deterioration (occurring in the field, such as deterioration of the mother plant) or long-term deterioration (occurring during storage). The latter includes membrane and genetic damage, changes in respiratory activity and enzymes and protein damage [9,10]. Environmental stresses, including deficiency of minerals (including nitrogen, potassium, and calcium) [17]), water [18] and temperature extremes [19] during seed development and prior to physiological maturity can reduce the longevity of seeds
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