OsMBF1a Facilitates Seed Germination by Regulating Biosynthesis of Gibberellic Acid and Abscisic Acid in Rice

Seed germination is a pivotal stage in the plant life cycle, orchestrated by a myriad of internal and external factors, notably plant hormones. The underlying molecular mechanisms governing rice seed germination remain largely unelucidated. Herein, we uncover <i>OsMBF1a</i> as a crucial regulatory factor that employs a dual strategy to promote seed germination: positively activating genes involved in gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis pathways, while negatively regulating key genes responsible for abscisic acid (ABA) synthesis. Furthermore, <i>OsMBF1a</i> modulates the endogenous levels of ABA and GA in rice seeds, reinforcing its central role in the germination process. The expression of <i>ZmMBF1a</i> and <i>ZmMBF1b</i>, the homologous genes in maize, in rice seeds similarly affects germination, indicating the conserved functionality of MBF1 family genes in regulating seed germination. This study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying rice seed germination and underscores the significance of MBF1 family genes in plant growth and development.