Spermidine improves seed viability in Allium mongolicum by regulating AmCS-mediated metabolic and antioxidant networks

We demonstrate that the AmCS-AmPDK complex retards seed aging through two key mechanisms: (i) promoting acetyl-CoA flux in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and (ii) enhancing NADPH-dependent antioxidant capacity through pentose phosphate pathway activation. Exogenous Spd activates this network by inducing <i>AmCS</i> expression. Our findings establish <i>AmCS</i> as a key genetic regulator for enhancing anti-aging traits in crop breeding, offering prospects for precision breeding and advancements in seed storage practices.