Seed traits and phylogenomics: prospects for the 21st century

Abstract Genetic and biochemical studies have greatly advanced our understanding of the biology of seeds in recent years. Another area of study, which could accelerate contemporary seed biology research, is phylogenomics that integrates the wealth of genome sequence data with evolutionary biology. The recent phylogenomic study of the DELAY OF GERMINATION1 family genes exemplifies how the molecular evolution of seed genes can be traced back through early diverging plants and what implications can be obtained from the analysis of seed gene diversification at ancient times. The identification of possible ancestors of seed genes in non-seed plants could illuminate the ancient roots of the molecular mechanisms driving seed maturation programmes. It is possible that the origins of molecular mechanisms associated with the induction of seed storage proteins and desiccation tolerance proteins date back to the time of, or even prior to, early diverging land plants. Abscisic acid-dependent growth arrest or dormancy mechanisms might date back to red algae, one of the oldest algal groups. Thus, understanding algal cell biology will also be an integral part of future seed biology research. Unravelling key events associated with the evolution of seed- and non-seed plants will not only advance basic research but could also contribute to applied aspects of seed science, potentially leading to technology development for agriculture.