LEAFY COTYLEDON 2: A Regulatory Factor of Plant Growth and Seed Development

Transcription factors are key molecules in the regulation of gene expression in all organisms. The transcription factor LEAFY COTYLEDON 2 (LEC2), which belongs to the DNA-binding protein family, contains a B3 domain. The transcription factor is involved in the regulation of important plant biological processes such as embryogenesis, somatic embryo formation, seed storage protein synthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and other important biological processes. Recent studies have shown that LEC2 regulates the formation of lateral roots and influences the embryonic resetting of the parental vernalization state. The orthologs of LEC2 and their regulatory effects have also been identified in some crops; however, their regulatory mechanism requires further investigation. Here, we summarize the most recent findings concerning the effects of LEC2 on plant growth and seed development. In addition, we discuss the potential molecular mechanisms of the action of the LEC2 gene during plant development.