Abstract
Seed development is under the control of complex and coordinated molecular networks required for the formation of its different components. The seed coat development largely determines final seed size and shape, in addition to playing a crucial role in protecting the embryo and promoting germination. In this study, we investigated the role of three transcription factors known to be active during seed development in Arabidopsis thaliana: SEEDSTICK (STK) and GORDITA (GOA), two MADS-domain proteins, and AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 2 (ARF2), belonging to the ARF family. Through a reverse genetic approach, we characterized the seed phenotypes of all the single, double and triple loss-of-function mutants in relation to seed size/shape and the effects on metabolic pathways occurring in the seed coat. This approach revealed that dynamic networks involving these TFs are active throughout ovule and seed development, affecting the formation of the seed coat. Notably, while the genetic interaction among these genes results in synergies that control the promotion of cell expansion in the seed coat upon pollination and production of proanthocyanidins, functional antagonists arise in the control of cell proliferation and release of mucilage.
Highlights
In spermatophytes, seeds are the vehicle on which plants rely for their propagation and reproductive success
It was previously reported that STK, AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 2 (ARF2) and GOA affect seed size: stk mutant seeds are smaller than wild type ones, while arf2 and goa seeds are bigger [14,24,27]
Fitness strongly relies on production of viable seeds, whose development traces back to complex molecular regulatory networks
Summary
Seeds are the vehicle on which plants rely for their propagation and reproductive success. In this context, seed size represents one of the most important parameters that influence plant fitness. Given a certain amount of energy, small-seeded species produce more seeds than large-seeded ones, resulting in higher colonization abilities. Seedlings derived from large-seeded species better tolerate environmental stresses [1,2]. Food grains have been subjected to artificial selection and breeding for number, size, among other qualities, with the result that modern crops usually have more, larger and heavier seeds compared to wild-type relatives [3,4,5,6].
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