Ultrasound Priming Enhances Seed Vigor and Multiple Stresses Tolerance in Aged Maize Seeds

ABSTRACT: Seed vigor plays a crucial role in germination rate, population uniformity, seedling stress resistance and potential yield at maturity. Here we report a simple, eco-friendly physical method (40-second ultrasound) that rapidly triggers aged seeds to enhance seed vigor and stress resistance. Significant changes have occurred in the structure of the maize seed surface, internal enzymes activity, and genes expression. Ultrasound triggered transcriptional and metabolic reprogramming in seeds, activating additional pathways associated with growth and defense. Field trials demonstrated that ultrasonic treatment significantly increased maize yield by 8.65%-10.79%, offering an effective strategy for restoring the vigor of aged seeds to cope with extreme weather under climate change.

INSTRUMENT(S): Liquid Chromatography MS - positive - hilic, Liquid Chromatography MS - negative - hilic

PROVIDER: MTBLS15047 | MetaboLights | 2026-07-15

REPOSITORIES: MetaboLights