Nitric oxide and HCN reduce deep dormancy of apple seeds

Nitric oxide (NO) and cyanide (HCN) are small gaseous molecules that have been intensively studied to explain their role in plant development, metabolism and reaction to stresses. Cyanide and NO are known to be produced endogenously during early phase of seed germination or are present in the environment. Both molecules regulate breakage of seed dormancy and accelerate seed germination. Regulatory role of cyanide in breaking of dormancy seems to be understood to some extend, while the NO mode of action is much less explained. However, some similarities could be suggested. The mechanisms involved in HCN-dependent dormancy breakage in apple embryos are summarized in relation to NO-donor mediated stimulation of germination.