Effect of Water-Deficit Stress on Seed Development and Metabolism: An Integrated Approach to Identify Key Pathways and Metabolites Involved in Stress Regulation

Legume seeds and peanuts, in particular, are an inexpensive source of plant proteins and edible oil. Owing to their importance in global food security, it is necessary to understand the genetic, biochemical, and physiological mechanisms involved in controlling seed quality and nutritive attributes. A comprehensive understanding of seed development and the effects of water-deficit stress on the incorporation of the main storage reserves in seeds, such as proteins, fatty acids, starch, and secondary metabolites will enhance our ability to improve seed quality and yield through molecular breeding programs. In the present study we employed a combined transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approach to study the primary transcriptional networks and functional proteins including secondary metabolites altered in the developing peanut seed during water-deficit stress. The presentation will primarily focus on the integration of transcript, protein and metabolite data to understand key metabolic pathways altered during stress. Additionally, the effects of drought on seed protein, oil quality, and composition will be discussed.

 This research was supported by a grant from the USDA Ogallala Aquifer Initiative.