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Updated: Jan 11, 2026

Reliable Method for Assessing Seed Germination, Dormancy, and Mortality under Field Conditions
Published on: November 6, 2016
Light and Alternating Temperatures Release Seed Dormancy in the Invasive Dipsacus fullonum L. Through ROS Homeostasis
Paola Frazzetto1, Héctor R Huarte2, Giuseppe D Puglia3
1Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
Seed germination in Dipsacus fullonum is controlled by light and temperature. Abscisic acid (ABA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) play key roles in dormancy release, influenced by environmental cues.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Seed Physiology
- Weed Science
Background:
- Seed germination is regulated by environmental signals like light and temperature.
- Dipsacus fullonum (wild teasel) is a common weed with complex germination requirements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of light and temperature sensitivity in seed dormancy release of Dipsacus fullonum.
- To identify key genes and molecular players involved in germination regulation.
Main Methods:
- Screening of six Dipsacus fullonum accessions from different regions.
- Analysis of abscisic acid (ABA) levels and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
- Long-read RNA sequencing to identify gene expression patterns.
Main Results:
- Identified two distinct germination behaviors: environmentally sensitive and neutral.
- ABA accumulation in darkness maintains dormancy; its decrease promotes germination.
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) enhance germination, even in the absence of light.
- DfPIF1 maintains dormancy by promoting ABA biosynthesis; antioxidant genes regulate ROS homeostasis.
Conclusions:
- Novel mechanisms involving ABA and ROS regulate Dipsacus fullonum seed germination in response to environmental stimuli.
- DfPIF1 and antioxidant enzymes are critical regulators of dormancy and germination.
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