LEA proteins are late embryonic proteins abundant in higher plant seed embryos. The function of those proteins is not known (Probable). Promotes germination rate. Enhances cation toxicity (e.g. lithium ion) and osmotic stress (e.g. NaCl and sorbitol) tolerance during germination and in seedlings (PubMed:12175017). Present in the nucleus and nucleolus of mature embryos cells. Embryo specific, only in dry mature seeds. In mature embryos, restricted to provascular tissues. Also present in the seed coat outer tegument and silique epidermis. Levels decrease during seed imbibition and germination. Stimulated in embryos by the transcriptional activator ABI3. Not induced in vegetative tissues by abscisic acid (ABA), osmotic stress or dehydration. Belongs to the LEA type SMP family.