Research Objective
To develop novel Abscisic acid (ABA) analogs as non-GM tools to reduce ABA responses in seeds of pulse crops and to demonstrate their application for pulse researchers to promote germination, break dormancy and hasten desiccation.
This project consisted of two major parts: chemistry activity focused on the design and synthesize of novel ABA analogs, and applied activities which included screening and identification of promising compounds based on their effects on seed germination at low temperature and for further investigation at the seedling and adult plant stage.
In this proof of concept project, the research team developed novel Abscisic acid (ABA) analogs as potential tools to reduce ABA responses in seeds and to demonstrate their application to promote germination, break dormancy and hasten desiccation. Further research is aimed at optimizing improved ABA analog activity, fine tuning measurement of the effects and analyzing ABA and GA levels toward determining the mode of action of the ABA analogs, all geared to developing novel plant growth regulators for pulse crops.