Epigenetic control of seed dormancy using Capsella bursa-pastoris as a model species

Abstract

The function of seed dormancy is to spread germination across time in synchrony with seasonal cycles to avoid unfavourable environmental conditions. Phase transitions during seeds’ life require genome reprogramming at a large scale, which is often associated with major changes in chromatin structure. Recent advances have highlighted the role of chromatin remodelling in dormancy regulation. Despite the high importance of dormancy for plants competitiveness and life cycle timining, there is an enourmous lack of knowledge about its regulation at the molecular level. Natural variation in the responses of the epigenetic regulation processess to the environment could be informative regarding adapatation to climate. A greater understanding of seed dormancy is essential in a future where the impact of climate change on natural plant communities is uncertain.