About this Research Topic
In the recent past, there has been research on seed germination under various abiotic stresses that disrupt the normal germination process. However, an in-depth research is needed to understand the molecular mechanisms transforming the seeds into seedlings. Therefore, the current issue will emphasize the systems-level understanding of seed biology, with a special focus on physiological, genetic, transcriptional, proteomic, and metabolic networks involved in seed development in model and crop plants. The articles included will highlight the novel understanding of key mechanisms that underly seed dormancy, trigger the growth of the embryo, and endosperm, and rupture the testa leading to the successful germination of the seeds. There is a particular interest in research and systematic reviews which elucidate the agronomic performance, physiological bottlenecks hampering germination, novel genes and molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of seed germination, the impact of seed quality on the seedling and mature plant health, and any other relevant topics that provide insights to improve yield, resilience, or meal quality.
We welcome original research, systematic reviews, and method articles generally focusing on seed germination with the focus on the following topics including, but not limited to:
• Why seed dormancy is important
• How the interplay of exogenous and endogenous factors kick-starts the seed development
• Physiological processes controlling seed germination under stressful conditions
• Gene regulatory networks in seed germination
• Omics involved in the seed development
• Factors involved in the healthy and prolific seed production
• Nutritional and anti-nutritional compounds regulating seed development
Please note that purely descriptive studies that do not advance our understanding of seed and seedling biology will not be considered.
Keywords: Seed germination, seed development, seed dormancy, mechanisms in seed development, seedling, seed growth
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.