Article Title: LEA Proteins: Molecular Guardians of Seed Desiccation Tolerance

Seeds of most flowering plants undergo substantial water loss during the final stages of development but remain viable in the dry state and resume metabolic activity after absorbing water. This ability, known as desiccation tolerance, is particularly important in orthodox seeds because it allows them to withstand drying and remain viable during storage. The development of desiccation tolerance is associated with several physiological and biochemical changes, including the accumulation of protective proteins, non-reducing sugars and antioxidant systems. Among these components, Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins have received considerable attention because their accumulation is closely associated with the acquisition of desiccation tolerance during seed maturation.

Keyword: LEA Proteins in Seed Desiccation Tolerance