Hydrogen Gas Improves Seed Germination in Cucumber by Regulating Sugar and Starch Metabolisms

Hydrogen gas (H2), an important gaseous regulator, is involved in various plant growth and development processes. However, there have been few studies on the role of H2 seed germination. In this study, underlying mechanisms enhancing germination were investigated cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). The results revealed that rate, germ length, index, vitality index exhibited a dose-dependent relationship with increase concentrations hydrogen-rich water (HRW, donor; 0, 1, 10, 25, 50, 75, 100%), attaining maximum values 75% HRW treatment. Treatment resulted higher contents soluble sugar, protein, starch than control. Additionally, activity α-amylase, β-amylase, total amylase was significantly improved by treatment compared to control, reaching at 36 h. Moreover, expression levels starch-related genes AMY BMY sugar-related SS4 SS3 upregulated during germination, particularly These suggest might promote increasing sugar metabolisms.