In angiosperms, double fertilization triggers the concomitant development of two closely juxtaposed tissues, the embryo and the endosperm. Successful seed development and germination require constant interactions between these tissues, which occur across their common interface. The embryo–endosperm interface is a complex and poorly understood compound apoplast comprising components derived from both tissues, across which nutrients transit to fuel embryo development. Interface properties, which affect molecular diffusion and thus communication, are themselves dynamically regulated by molecular and physical dialogues between the embryo and endosperm. We review the current understanding of embryo–endosperm interactions, with a focus on the structure, properties, and function of their shared interface. Concentrating on Arabidopsis, but with reference to other species, we aim to situate recent findings within the broader context of seed physiology, developmental biology, and genetic factors such as parental conflicts over resource allocation.

 摘 要 

在被子植物中，双受精会触发两个紧密并列组织，即胚胎和胚乳的同时发育。种子正常发育和萌发需要胚胎和胚乳之间不断的相互作用，而这些相互作用主要发生在二者之间相交的界面上。胚胎-胚乳界面是一个复杂但人们对其所知不多的复合质外体，由来自胚胎和胚乳两种组织的成分组成，来自胚乳的营养物质会通过该界面转运进胚胎，从而为胚胎的发育提供营养。影响分子扩散以及通讯的界面特性，其自身受到胚胎和胚乳之间的分子和物理交流所动态调节。本文中，作者回顾了目前对胚胎-胚乳相互作用的了解，重点关注了胚胎-胚乳界面的结构、性质和功能。作者在本文中主要关注模式植物拟南芥，同时也参考了其他物种中的相关研究，旨在将最近的研究发现联系到更广泛的种子生理学、发育生物学和亲本资源配置冲突等遗传因子等领域。