The expression of 1-Cys-PRX reflects changes in Coffea arabica seed quality during storage

Abstract

Understanding the physiological aspects associated with the response of Coffea arabica seeds to drying is crucial for enhancing their production. We assessed the physiological quality and expression of the 1-Cys-PRX protein in coffee seeds subjected to drying and storage. Seeds of Coffea arabica L. were dried to water contents of 40, 20, and 10% and stored for 60, 120, and 180 days. The physiological quality of the seeds was evaluated through germination, emergence percentage, and speed index (IVE) tests. The expression of the 1-Cys-PRX protein was also analyzed using Western blotting. Greater PRX protein expression was detected in the coffee seeds dried with 20 and 10% water throughout storage, while no protein expression was detected in the seeds with 46% water (control treatment) or in the seeds with 40% water after 60 days of storage. The physiological quality of Coffea arabica seeds is influenced by water content and the storage period. A greater expression of peroxiredoxin protein was detected in coffee seeds dried with 20% and 10% water. There was a reduction in seed vigor when the plants were dry, particularly at 20% and 10% water contents.