Seed proteomics: An overview

Abstract

Seed is vital for propagation of spermatophytes in biome and as food source for inhabitants of the earth. Studies on seed proteins provide platform for new avenues to explore molecular networks and pathways governing seed filling, maturation, germination, and seedling formation. Protein expression changes of three genetically different sub-regions of angiosperm seeds are reflected in ordered chain of biological events represented from family differences in different taxas. Different families of angiosperm show divergence of seed protein evolution and thus provide insights into seed structure and function. A gamut of information is available on seed proteomic datasets from approximately 3500 proteins that impinge on protein function in diverse plant families. The functional modularity of seed proteins were compared amongst species that span from dicot to moncot and diploid to polyploid. Transitions of protein complement revealed difference between dormancy and germination towards understanding biological check point at translational level. Goal of this chapter is to critically review data available till date on seed proteomic studies and identify family and cross genera knowledge gaps. The information thus obtained would unravel new components and an unparallel understanding of the molecular processes underlying translational and post-translational variations under different conditions that involves histodifferentiation and organogenesis of the seed.