Final answer:
Gibberellins stimulate the production of enzymes that degrade food reserves in the seed endosperm, with the nutrients then transported to the developing embryo to aid in growth during germination.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gibberellins (GAs) are a class of plant hormones that play a significant role in various plant growth processes, including the breaking down of food storage during seed germination. In seeds, GAs signal the degradation of stored food reserves for the embryo's growth. They work in opposition to abscisic acid (ABA), which induces and maintains dormancy in seeds and buds under unfavorable conditions. When environmental conditions become favorable for germination, ABA levels decrease, and GA levels increase. GAs activate the production of enzymes by the aleurone layer, which then break down the stored carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids in the endosperm. The digested food reserves are then absorbed by the cotyledon or scutellum and transported to the developing embryo to support its growth.