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Abstract
The development of orthodox seeds concludes by a desiccation phase. The dry seeds
then enter a phase of dormancy, also called the after-ripening phase, and become competent
for germination. We discuss physiological processes as well as gene expression and
metabolic programs occurring during the desiccation phase in respect to their contribution
to the desiccation tolerance, dormancy competence and successful germination of the
dry seeds. The transition of developing seeds from the phase of reserve accumulation
to desiccation is associated with distinct gene expression and metabolic switches.
Interestingly, a significant proportion of the gene expression and metabolic signatures
of seed desiccation resemble those characterizing seed germination, implying that
the preparation of the seeds for germination begins already during seed desiccation.