Laser-Induced Effects on Seed Germination and Plant Growth

Laser-induced seed treatments have emerged as a promising technique to enhance germination rates, early vigour and overall plant performance. Low-power coherent light sources such as He–Ne, diode and Nd:YAG lasers deliver monochromatic, collimated radiation that interacts with seed tissues to modulate physiological and molecular pathways. Laser priming can accelerate water uptake, activate hydrolytic enzymes and adjust hormone balances, thereby shortening germination time and improving seedling establishment. Beyond germination, laser exposure affects gene expression, antioxidant activity and secondary metabolite profiles, leading to heightened resilience against drought, salinity and UV-B stress. Applications span cereals, legumes, medicinal and ornamental species, with reported gains in yield components and stress tolerance. Ongoing research seeks to elucidate photoreceptor-mediated signalling cascades, optimise irradiation parameters and develop eco-friendly, scalable seed treatment protocols for diverse cropping systems.

Research from Nature Portfolio

Recent studies have explored the molecular and developmental impacts of laser treatment on plant tissues. In one investigation of Gladiolus corms, red-laser irradiation at defined power and exposure times enhanced vegetative growth, advanced flowering onset and modified pigment and nutrient profiles, with allele-specific changes revealed by SSR markers. A study on eggplant seeds showed that He–Ne laser pretreatment increased germination indices by elevating gibberellin-to-abscisic acid ratios and upregulating phytochrome genes, leading to greater photosynthetic output and metabolite accumulation. Foundational transcriptome analysis of wheat seedlings under drought stress demonstrated that He–Ne laser pretreatment upregulated genes linked to photosynthesis, osmotic adjustment and antioxidative enzymes, providing a genetic basis for improved stress tolerance.

Laser-Induced Effects on Seed Germination and Plant Growth publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in laser-induced effects on seed germination and plant growth across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Laser priming: A seed treatment method employing low-power laser light to stimulate physiological and molecular processes that promote germination and growth.

Photobiostimulation: The modulation of biological activities in plants through exposure to specific light wavelengths and intensities.

Phytochrome: A light-sensitive pigment that perceives red and far-red light, regulating germination, stem elongation and flowering responses.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS): Highly reactive molecules derived from oxygen that play signalling roles in stress responses but can cause cellular damage if uncontrolled.

Germination index: A composite measure reflecting both the speed and uniformity of seed germination.

References

1. He-Ne laser pre-exposure alleviates salinity stress through physio-biochemical regulation and enhanced withanolide production in Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. Industrial Crops and Products (2024).
2. Bio-Stimulant for Improving Simmondsia chinensis Secondary Metabolite Production, as Well as Antimicrobial Activity and Wound Healing Abilities. Plants (2023).
3. Laser-induced changes in the gene expression, growth and development of Gladiolus grandiflorus cv. “White Prosperity”. Scientific Reports (2024).
4. Physiological and transcriptome analysis of He-Ne laser pretreated wheat seedlings in response to drought stress. Scientific Reports (2017).
5. Laser Irradiation Effects at Different Wavelengths on Phenology and Yield Components of Pretreated Maize Seed. Applied Sciences (2020).
6. He–Ne laser accelerates seed germination by modulating growth hormones and reprogramming metabolism in brinjal. Scientific Reports (2021).