Insights into mechanisms of seed longevity in soybean: a review

Soybean, a crop of international importance, is challenged with the problem of seed longevity mainly due to its genetic composition and associated environmental cues. Soybean's fragile seed coat coupled with poor DNA integrity, ribosomal dysfunction, lipid peroxidation and poor antioxidant system constitute the rationale for fast deterioration. Variability among the genotypes for sensitivity to field weathering contributed to their differential seed longevity. Proportion and density of seed coat, glassy state of cells, calcium and lignin content, pore number, space between seed coat and cotyledon are some seed related traits that are strongly correlated to longevity. Further, efficient antioxidant system, surplus protective proteins, effective nucleotide and protein repair systems and free radical scavenging mechanisms also contributed to the storage potential of soybean seeds. Identification of molecular markers and QTLs associated with these mechanisms will pave way for enhanced selection efficiency for seed longevity in soybean breeding programs. This review reflects on the morphological, biochemical and molecular bases of seed longevity along with pointers on harvest, processing and storage strategies for extending vigour and viability in soybean.

Automated summary

Soybean, an internationally important crop, faces challenges in seed longevity due to genetic factors and environmental cues. Fragile seed coat, poor DNA integrity, ribosomal dysfunction, lipid peroxidation, and weak antioxidant system contribute to seed deterioration. Seed traits such as seed coat proportion, cell state, calcium and lignin content, pore number, and space between coat and cotyledon are strongly correlated with seed longevity. Efficient antioxidant system, protective proteins, repair systems, and free radical scavenging mechanisms also play a role in soybean seed storage potential. Identification of molecular markers and quantitative trait loci associated with these mechanisms can enhance selection efficiency in soybean breeding programs. This review discusses the morphological, biochemical, and molecular factors influencing seed longevity, and provides guidance on harvest, processing, and storage strategies for maintaining vigor and viability in soybean.