The virtual seed (vSEED)

Lead Research Organisation: University of Leeds
Department Name: Ctr for Plant Sciences

Abstract

The aim of the vSEED project is to provide a dynamic mathematical description of seed dormancy, after-ripening and germination focussing on the key seed compartments the radicle and endosperm. This interdisciplinary project will analyse the comparative biology of the closely related Brassicaceae species Arabidopsis thaliana and Lepidium sativum, using engineering, imaging, modelling and post-genomics approaches to develop a virtual germinating seed. We propose that germination is an ideal exemplary subject for the integration of new technologies and for developing molecular plant biomechanics in conjunction with dynamic mathematical modelling.

Technical Summary

The aim of the vSEED project is to provide a dynamic mathematical description of seed dormancy, after-ripening and germination focussing on the key seed compartments the radicle and endosperm. This interdisciplinary project will analyse the comparative biology of the closely related Brassicaceae species Arabidopsis thaliana and Lepidium sativum, using engineering, imaging, modelling and post-genomics approaches to develop a virtual germinating seed. We propose that germination is an ideal exemplary subject for the integration of new technologies and for developing molecular plant biomechanics in conjunction with dynamic mathematical modelling. The research programme will be achieved through five inter-related work packages: WP1: Identification and mathematical modelling of key transcriptome networks associated with radicle and endosperm function. WP2: Analysis of cell wall biology during embryo growth and endosperm weakening. WP3: Provision of tissue/seed scale biomechanical modelling through the use of novel engineering and imaging approaches. WP4: Multi-scale modelling, integrating cross-species analysis, from transcriptomic networks though tissue biomechanical models to physiological seed behaviour (including abiotic stresses). WP5: Resource development and model validation through use of unique, and development of novel, genetic resources.
 
Description The project involved a study of seed germination in three model seed systems: arabidopsis, Lepidium sativum and tobacco. The focus was on the cell wall structures and cell wall remodelling that are important for seed germination.



An important discovery was that the cell walls of endosperm cells varied between the three species. The arabidopsis and L. sativum endosperm cell walls are similar and cellulose-, xyloglucan- and arabinan-rich and do not display any spatial heterogeneity. In contrast, tobacco endosperm cell walls are mannan-rich and cellulose-poor and have a tissue level heterogeneity relating to the micropylar region. This has implications for understanding the hormonal and genetic networks that underpin endosperm cell wall remodelling and germination in the three species.
Exploitation Route The project developed a detailed understanding of the cell wall components of seed endosperms. This is important baseline information that can be used to develop strategies to control endosperm properties in relation to seed germination as a key feature of seed quality. The work is also important as it adds to our understanding of the variety and heterogeneity of plant cell wall structures. Plant cell walls are important components of biomass and important determinants of plant growth and also important as a source of a range of industrial polymers.
Sectors Agriculture, Food and Drink,Education