Molecular mechanisms of rice seed germination

Rice is a fundamental dietary worldwide. With the increasing adoption of direct seeding in rice cultivation, the need for rapid and synchronized germination, even under submerged conditions, has become critical. Additionally, addressing challenges such as pre-harvest sprouting and germination under various stress conditions is vital for improving rice production. Therefore, understanding the regulatory mechanisms that control rice seed germination is essential. Numerous studies have highlighted the pivotal roles of the phytohormones gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) in modulating rice seed germination, similar to their roles in Arabidopsis. Key factors, including genes that regulate germination under submergence, have been identified, further advancing our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this process. This review synthesizes recent progress in the field, providing insights into the regulation of rice seed germination.