Elucidating molecular mechanisms by which seeds respond to environmental factors

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Seeds are a primary component of the world's diet, which comprise ~50% of the total energy consumption. Therefore, much effort has been made to improve the seed quality and to synchronize germination by using conventional or modern technologies. Seed germination is regulated by environmental factors such as nutrient, water, light and temperature. Among them, nitrate plays a dual role to promote seed germination: one as a nutrient, and the other as a signal. Nitrate signaling is fundamental in all aspects of seed physiology, however, its molecular mechanisms remains unknown. Therefore, elucidating this mechanism is a challenge for both basic and applied researchers. My research group recently identified key regulators for nitrate signaling in Arabidopsis seeds. The aim of this research program is (i) to elucidate the molecular functions of these regulators through identification of upstream regulators and downstream targets, and (ii) to reveal how embryo and endosperm interact each other to coordinate multiple external cues into a single output (either dormancy or germination). The mode of interaction between nitrate and other environmental signals (light, water, and temperature) will be examined. In addition, the cell type-specific expression of nitrate-induced genes will be mapped spatially and temporally by using systems biology approaches to visualize environmental signaling cascades.