Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

A Seed Coat Bedding Assay to Genetically Explore In Vitro How the Endosperm Controls Seed Germination in Arabidopsis thaliana
Published on: November 9, 2013
Interaction of light and hormone signals in germinating seeds
Mitsunori Seo1, Eiji Nambara, Giltsu Choi
1RIKEN Plant Science Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan.
Abstract:
Seed germination is regulated by several environmental factors, such as moisture, oxygen, temperature, light, and nutrients. Light is a critical regulator of seed germination in small-seeded plants, including Arabidopsis and lettuce. Phytochromes, a class of photoreceptors, play a major role in perceiving light to induce seed germination. Classical physiological studies have long suggested the involvement of gibberellin (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) in the phytochrome-mediated germination response. Recent studies have demonstrated that phytochromes modulate endogenous levels of GA and ABA, as well as GA responsiveness. Several key components that link the perception of light and the modulation of hormone levels and responsiveness have been identified. Complex regulatory loops between light, GA and ABA signaling pathways have been uncovered.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Photoreceptors and Plant Responses to Light
Cell Signaling in Plants
Plant Hormones
Plant Hormones
Biological Clocks and Seasonal Responses
Seed Structure and Early Development of the Sporophyte

