Molecular approaches to germination and desiccation tolerance

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Breaking of seed dormancy, leading to germination, is under the control of plant hormones.  These cause changes in the expression of key genes, but first the hormone has to be recognized as a signal to induce these events. Elucidating the signal transduction pathway is key to our understanding of how hormones work, and for their useful application to improve agronomc traits.  Our research concentrates a pivotal protein component of this pathway, to determine how it functions, and how its action is controlled within the seed to promote germination.All agricultural plants are affected adversely by lack of water.  We have identified a horticultural plant whose roots can withstand desiccation.  Related to this tolerance is the appearance in the roots of a small protein, in abundant quantities.  We are studying this protein, and its synthesis, with the intent of introducing it into intolerant temperate crop plants, in the expectation that it will increase their ability to withstand drought.