Exploring the role of DNA damage response in seed priming to uncover key players for multi-stress tolerance

Abstract

Combined climatic stressors result in cumulative damage and unpredictable shocks to seed systems. Seed priming, a pre-sowing technique used to enhance seed vigour, is a key tool to face climate change. Priming agents boost the DNA damage response during early seed imbibition, preserving genome integrity and ensuring germination. Based on these premises, to what extent could the DNA damage response support the seed response to multiple stresses? How could seed priming enhance DNA repair to better fight combined stressors? How far are we from understanding the mechanisms for multiple stress tolerance that can contribute to improved resilience in seeds? The state of the art is critically discussed considering the scanty knowledge on this topic, highlighting the complex scenario of multi-factorial stress combinations. Case studies showing the efficacy of seed priming in promoting multiple stress response are reviewed, integrating the role of cross-stress tolerance, target germplasm (from major to orphan crops), and the contribution of advanced omics/phenotyping tools. Expanding current knowledge in seed biology, by focusing on the impact of multiple climatic stressors, is a challenge since there are still relevant open questions concerning the way in which the DNA damage response can be utilized in seeds that must be addressed.