Understanding the role of specialized metabolites in Brassicaceae and Leguminosae seeds: implications for seed health, nutritional quality and sustainable agriculture

Specialized metabolites (SMs) influence seed physiology, defence, and nutritional quality. In crop species such as Brassicaceae and Leguminosae. SMs like tannins, glucosinolates, and some alkaloids contribute to seed protection against biotic and abiotic stresses. This review focuses on these two botanical families as case studies to illustrate the diversity and functional roles of SMs in seeds. Beyond their protective role, SMs shape the organoleptic properties of many foods and have significant health benefits, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and potential protective effects against chronic diseases. However, some SMs can negatively affect seed nutritional quality due to their antinutritional or toxic properties. Managing this dual nature is a key challenge for crop improvement. It requires a striking balance between the beneficial and adverse effects of SMs on seed quality. Understanding SM biosynthesis and functions offers opportunities to optimize their composition via breeding, biostimulation, or biocontrol strategies, enhancing crop resilience and sustainability while minimizing reliance on synthetic inputs.