Agricultural and Biological Sciences Plant Science

Soybean genetics and cultivation

Description

This cluster of papers focuses on the genetic diversity, genome sequencing, QTL mapping, and improvement of soybean, covering topics such as domestication, agronomic traits, seed composition, photoperiod sensitivity, and drought tolerance.

Keywords

Soybean; Genetic Diversity; Genome Sequencing; QTL Mapping; Domestication; Agronomic Traits; Seed Composition; Photoperiod Sensitivity; Drought Tolerance; Maturity Loci

ABSTRACT Soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yields in the USA have risen 22.6 kg ha −1 yr −1 from 1924 to 1997, but in the last quarter century (1972–1997) … ABSTRACT Soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yields in the USA have risen 22.6 kg ha −1 yr −1 from 1924 to 1997, but in the last quarter century (1972–1997) have risen 40% faster, 31.4 kg ha −1 yr −1 This upward trend in on‐farm yield is fueled by rapid producer adoption of technologies emerging from agricultural research. Published estimates of the annual gain in yield attributable to genetic improvement averaged about 15 kg ha −1 yr −1 prior to the 1980s, but is now averaging about 30 kg ha −1 yr −1 in both the public and proprietary sectors. Periodic advances in agronomic technology, and a relentless rise in atmospheric CO 2 (currently 1.5 μL L −1 yr −1 ), also contribute to the upward trend in on‐farm yield. In Nebraska, irrigated yield averages 800 kg ha −1 more than rainfed yield, and is improving at a 40% faster annual rate (35.1 vs. 24.9 kg ha −1 ). About 36% of the annual variation in the irrigated‐rainfed yield difference is attributable to annual variation in absolute rainfed yield. Inadequate water obviously limits absolute crop yield, but also seems to be an obstacle in terms of the rate of yield improvement. Several physiological traits changed during six decades of cultivar releases in Ontario that led to a genetic gain in yield of about 0.5% yr −1 Changes in some traits were obvious (improved lodging), but more subtle in others (greater N 2 ‐fixation, greater stress tolerance). In terms of photosynthate supplied to sinks across a wide range of environments, recent cultivars seem to be superior to obsolete ones. To sustain and enhance soybean yield improvement in the future, technological innovation must be continually injected into the agricultural enterprise.
Sequencing and de novo assembly of seven wild relatives of soybean yields insights relevant to crop domestication and improvement. Wild relatives of crops are an important source of genetic diversity … Sequencing and de novo assembly of seven wild relatives of soybean yields insights relevant to crop domestication and improvement. Wild relatives of crops are an important source of genetic diversity for agriculture, but their gene repertoire remains largely unexplored. We report the establishment and analysis of a pan-genome of Glycine soja, the wild relative of cultivated soybean Glycine max, by sequencing and de novo assembly of seven phylogenetically and geographically representative accessions. Intergenomic comparisons identified lineage-specific genes and genes with copy number variation or large-effect mutations, some of which show evidence of positive selection and may contribute to variation of agronomic traits such as biotic resistance, seed composition, flowering and maturity time, organ size and final biomass. Approximately 80% of the pan-genome was present in all seven accessions (core), whereas the rest was dispensable and exhibited greater variation than the core genome, perhaps reflecting a role in adaptation to diverse environments. This work will facilitate the harnessing of untapped genetic diversity from wild soybean for enhancement of elite cultivars.
We investigated the transferability of 31 soybean (Glycine max) simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci to wild congeners and to other legume genera. Up to 65% of the soybean primer pairs … We investigated the transferability of 31 soybean (Glycine max) simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci to wild congeners and to other legume genera. Up to 65% of the soybean primer pairs amplified SSRs within Glycine, but frequently, the SSRs were short and interrupted compared with those of soybeans. Nevertheless, 85% of the loci were polymorphic within G. clandestina. Cross-species amplification outside of the genus was much lower (3%-13%), with polymorphism restricted to one primer pair, AG81. AG81 amplified loci in Glycine, Kennedia, and Vigna (Phaseoleae), Vicia (Vicieae), Trifolium (Trifolieae), and Lupinus (Genisteae) within the Papilionoideae, and in Albizia within the Mimosoideae. The primer conservation at AG81 may be explained by its apparent proximity to the seryl-tRNA synthetase gene. Interspecific differences in allele size at AG81 loci reflected repeat length variation within the SSR region and indels in the flanking region. Alleles of identical size with different underlying sequences (size homoplasy) were observed. Our findings and the emerging patterns in other plant studies suggest that in contrast to animals, successful cross-species amplification of SSRs in plants is largely restricted to congeners or closely related genera. Because mutations in both the SSR region and the flanking region contribute to variation in allele size among species, knowledge of DNA sequence is essential before SSR loci can be meaningfully used to address applied and evolutionary questions.
A number of molecular genetic maps of the soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] have been developed over the past 10 yr. These maps are primarily based on restriction fragment … A number of molecular genetic maps of the soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] have been developed over the past 10 yr. These maps are primarily based on restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) markers. Parental surveys have shown that most RFLP loci have only two known alleles. However, because the soybean is an ancient polyploid, RFLP probes typically hybridize and map to more than one position in the genome. Thus, the polymorphic potential of an RFLP probe is primarily a function of the frequency of the two alleles at each locus the probe detects. In contrast, simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers are single locus markers with multiple alleles. The polymorphic potential of an SSR marker is dependent on the number of alleles and their frequencies. Single locus markers provide an unambiguous means of defining linkage group homology across mapping populations. The objective of the work reported here was to develop and map a large set of SSR markers. A total of 606 SSR loci were mapped in one or more of three populations: the USDA/Iowa State G. max × G. soja F 2 population, the Univ. of Utah Minsoy × Noir 1 recombinant inbred population, and the Univ. of Nebraska Clark × Harosoy F 2 population. Each SSR mapped to a single locus in the genome, with a map order that was essentially identical in all three populations. Many SSR loci were segregating in two or all three populations. Thus, it was relatively simple to align the 20+ linkage groups derived from each of the three populations into a consensus set of 20 homologous linkage groups presumed to correspond to the 20 pairs of soybean chromosomes. On the basis of in situ segregation or linkage reports in the literature all but one of the classical linkage groups can now be assigned to a corresponding molecular linkage group.
ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTMajor proteins of soybean seeds. A straightforward fractionation and their characterizationVu Huu Thanh and Kazuo ShibasakiCite this: J. Agric. Food Chem. 1976, 24, 6, 1117–1121Publication Date (Print):November … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTMajor proteins of soybean seeds. A straightforward fractionation and their characterizationVu Huu Thanh and Kazuo ShibasakiCite this: J. Agric. Food Chem. 1976, 24, 6, 1117–1121Publication Date (Print):November 1, 1976Publication History Published online1 May 2002Published inissue 1 November 1976https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf60208a030https://doi.org/10.1021/jf60208a030research-articleACS PublicationsRequest reuse permissionsArticle Views2413Altmetric-Citations322LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InRedditEmail Other access optionsGet e-Alertsclose Get e-Alerts
Soybean (Glycine max) is one of the most important crop plants for seed protein and oil content, and for its capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbioses with soil-borne microorganisms. … Soybean (Glycine max) is one of the most important crop plants for seed protein and oil content, and for its capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbioses with soil-borne microorganisms. We sequenced the 1.1-gigabase genome by a whole-genome shotgun approach and integrated it with physical and high-density genetic maps to create a chromosome-scale draft sequence assembly. We predict 46,430 protein-coding genes, 70% more than Arabidopsis and similar to the poplar genome which, like soybean, is an ancient polyploid (palaeopolyploid). About 78% of the predicted genes occur in chromosome ends, which comprise less than one-half of the genome but account for nearly all of the genetic recombination. Genome duplications occurred at approximately 59 and 13 million years ago, resulting in a highly duplicated genome with nearly 75% of the genes present in multiple copies. The two duplication events were followed by gene diversification and loss, and numerous chromosome rearrangements. An accurate soybean genome sequence will facilitate the identification of the genetic basis of many soybean traits, and accelerate the creation of improved soybean varieties.
Highly parallel SNP genotyping platforms have been developed for some important crop species, but these platforms typically carry a high cost per sample for first-time or small-scale users. In contrast, … Highly parallel SNP genotyping platforms have been developed for some important crop species, but these platforms typically carry a high cost per sample for first-time or small-scale users. In contrast, recently developed genotyping by sequencing (GBS) approaches offer a highly cost effective alternative for simultaneous SNP discovery and genotyping. In the present investigation, we have explored the use of GBS in soybean. In addition to developing a novel analysis pipeline to call SNPs and indels from the resulting sequence reads, we have devised a modified library preparation protocol to alter the degree of complexity reduction. We used a set of eight diverse soybean genotypes to conduct a pilot scale test of the protocol and pipeline. Using ApeKI for GBS library preparation and sequencing on an Illumina GAIIx machine, we obtained 5.5 M reads and these were processed using our pipeline. A total of 10,120 high quality SNPs were obtained and the distribution of these SNPs mirrored closely the distribution of gene-rich regions in the soybean genome. A total of 39.5% of the SNPs were present in genic regions and 52.5% of these were located in the coding sequence. Validation of over 400 genotypes at a set of randomly selected SNPs using Sanger sequencing showed a 98% success rate. We then explored the use of selective primers to achieve a greater complexity reduction during GBS library preparation. The number of SNP calls could be increased by almost 40% and their depth of coverage was more than doubled, thus opening the door to an increase in the throughput and a significant decrease in the per sample cost. The approach to obtain high quality SNPs developed here will be helpful for marker assisted genomics as well as assessment of available genetic resources for effective utilisation in a wide number of species.
Soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield, when regressed on water needed to replenish 0 to 100% seasonal evapotranspiration (ET), generates an estimate of season‐specific water‐use efficiency (WUE). The impact … Soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield, when regressed on water needed to replenish 0 to 100% seasonal evapotranspiration (ET), generates an estimate of season‐specific water‐use efficiency (WUE). The impact of unpredictable water deficits might be lessened if high‐yielding genotypes had a smaller beta. Our objective was to determine the genetic basis of beta and carbon isotope discrimination (CID), a theorized indicator of transpiration efficiency (TE). A ‘Minsoy’ × ‘Noir 1’ population of 236 recombinant inbred lines (RILs), genotyped at 665 loci, was evaluated in six water treatments (100, 80, 60, 40, 20, and 0% ET) for 2 yr. Water stress was mild in 1994, but high temperatures and no rainfall in 1995 led to a drought so severe that the 100% ET treatment required 41 cm of irrigation. The 1995 yield‐to‐water regression was highly linear (28 kg ha −1 cm −1 ). Genotype × water (G × W) interaction was due to genotypic heterogeneity in beta The CID vs. beta correlation was low ( r = 0.26), so selection for better leaf TE may not improve crop WUE. Selection of low beta (less sensitivity to drought) will be difficult, given the yield beta vs. yield correlation ( r = 0.71). The major quantitative trait loci (QTL) for yield beta , yield, and CID were coincident with maturity and/or determinancy QTLs, except for a CID QTL in linkage group U09‐C2, but it had no effect on beta Genetic improvement of soybean yield performance under drought would be better achieved by coupling a high‐yield grand mean with a high‐ (not low‐) yield beta
Environmental stress during soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed fill can alter the chemical composition of the seed and reduce yield, viability, and vigor. The effect of drought and … Environmental stress during soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed fill can alter the chemical composition of the seed and reduce yield, viability, and vigor. The effect of drought and high air temperature (AT) on soybean seed protein and oil contents have not been reported. The objective of this study was to characterize the protein and oil contents and fatty acid composition of soybean seeds after exposure to drought and high AT during seed fill. Experiments were conducted during two years, in which three drought‐stress levels were maintained throughout seed fill. In Experiment I, “Gnome” soybeans were grown at daytime AT of 20 and 26°C, and in Experiment II “Hodgson 78” were grown at 27, 29, 33, and 35°C. Across experiments, severe drought increased protein content by 4.4 percentage points, while oil content decreased by 2.9 percentage points. As drought stress increased, measured by accumulating stress degree days, protein content increased linearly and oil content decreased linearly at each AT. Seeds from plants exposed to 35°C during seed fill contained 4.0 percentage points more protein and 2.6 percentage points less oil than those exposed to 29°C when averaged across drought stress levels. Drought had little effect on the fatty acid composition of the oil, but high AT reduced the proportion of the polyunsaturated components.
Soybean has undergone several genetic bottlenecks. These include domestication in Asia to produce numerous Asian landraces, introduction of relatively few landraces to North America, and then selective breeding over the … Soybean has undergone several genetic bottlenecks. These include domestication in Asia to produce numerous Asian landraces, introduction of relatively few landraces to North America, and then selective breeding over the past 75 years. It is presumed that these three human-mediated events have reduced genetic diversity. We sequenced 111 fragments from 102 genes in four soybean populations representing the populations before and after genetic bottlenecks. We show that soybean has lost many rare sequence variants and has undergone numerous allele frequency changes throughout its history. Although soybean genetic diversity has been eroded by human selection after domestication, it is notable that modern cultivars have retained 72% of the sequence diversity present in the Asian landraces but lost 79% of rare alleles (frequency </=0.10) found in the Asian landraces. Simulations indicated that the diversity lost through the genetic bottlenecks of introduction and plant breeding was mostly due to the small number of Asian introductions and not the artificial selection subsequently imposed by selective breeding. The bottleneck with the most impact was domestication; when the low sequence diversity present in the wild species was halved, 81% of the rare alleles were lost, and 60% of the genes exhibited evidence of significant allele frequency changes.
Melatonin is a well-known agent that plays multiple roles in animals. Its possible function in plants is less clear. In the present study, we tested the effect of melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) … Melatonin is a well-known agent that plays multiple roles in animals. Its possible function in plants is less clear. In the present study, we tested the effect of melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) on soybean growth and development. Coating seeds with melatonin significantly promoted soybean growth as judged from leaf size and plant height. This enhancement was also observed in soybean production and their fatty acid content. Melatonin increased pod number and seed number, but not 100-seed weight. Melatonin also improved soybean tolerance to salt and drought stresses. Transcriptome analysis revealed that salt stress inhibited expressions of genes related to binding, oxidoreductase activity/process, and secondary metabolic processes. Melatonin up-regulated expressions of the genes inhibited by salt stress, and hence alleviated the inhibitory effects of salt stress on gene expressions. Further detailed analysis of the affected pathways documents that melatonin probably achieved its promotional roles in soybean through enhancement of genes involved in cell division, photosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and ascorbate metabolism. Our results demonstrate that melatonin has significant potential for improvement of soybean growth and seed production. Further study should uncover more about the molecular mechanisms of melatonin's function in soybeans and other crops.
Next generation sequencing is transforming our understanding of transcriptomes. It can determine the expression level of transcripts with a dynamic range of over six orders of magnitude from multiple tissues, … Next generation sequencing is transforming our understanding of transcriptomes. It can determine the expression level of transcripts with a dynamic range of over six orders of magnitude from multiple tissues, developmental stages or conditions. Patterns of gene expression provide insight into functions of genes with unknown annotation. The RNA Seq-Atlas presented here provides a record of high-resolution gene expression in a set of fourteen diverse tissues. Hierarchical clustering of transcriptional profiles for these tissues suggests three clades with similar profiles: aerial, underground and seed tissues. We also investigate the relationship between gene structure and gene expression and find a correlation between gene length and expression. Additionally, we find dramatic tissue-specific gene expression of both the most highly-expressed genes and the genes specific to legumes in seed development and nodule tissues. Analysis of the gene expression profiles of over 2,000 genes with preferential gene expression in seed suggests there are more than 177 genes with functional roles that are involved in the economically important seed filling process. Finally, the Seq-atlas also provides a means of evaluating existing gene model annotations for the Glycine max genome. This RNA-Seq atlas extends the analyses of previous gene expression atlases performed using Affymetrix GeneChip technology and provides an example of new methods to accommodate the increase in transcriptome data obtained from next generation sequencing. Data contained within this RNA-Seq atlas of Glycine max can be explored at http://www.soybase.org/soyseq .
A multiple criteria approach is presented by which vigor was evaluated in 16 lots of soybean ( Glycine max L., cv. ‘Lee‐68’) seed by determining O 2 uptake, CO 2 … A multiple criteria approach is presented by which vigor was evaluated in 16 lots of soybean ( Glycine max L., cv. ‘Lee‐68’) seed by determining O 2 uptake, CO 2 production, uptake of labeled glucose or leucine, conversion of isotopes into 14 CO 2 and polysaccharides or proteins, and leaching of metabolites through membranes of excised embryonic axes after 5 hours of imbibition. The concept upon which this approach is based is that excised embryonic axes from vigorous seed lots take up more sugars and amino acids from imbibing media, incorporate these metabolites faster into polysaccharides and proteins, and permit less leaching of nonused metabolites into surrounding aqueous media than axes from less vigorous seed lots. These measurements focus on the biosynthetic capacity of the axis and the integrity of its cellular membranes.
The objective of this research was to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and to develop an Illumina Infinium BeadChip that contained over 50,000 SNPs from soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.). … The objective of this research was to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and to develop an Illumina Infinium BeadChip that contained over 50,000 SNPs from soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.). A total of 498,921,777 reads 35–45 bp in length were obtained from DNA sequence analysis of reduced representation libraries from several soybean accessions which included six cultivated and two wild soybean (G. soja Sieb. et Zucc.) genotypes. These reads were mapped to the soybean whole genome sequence and 209,903 SNPs were identified. After applying several filters, a total of 146,161 of the 209,903 SNPs were determined to be ideal candidates for Illumina Infinium II BeadChip design. To equalize the distance between selected SNPs, increase assay success rate, and minimize the number of SNPs with low minor allele frequency, an iteration algorithm based on a selection index was developed and used to select 60,800 SNPs for Infinium BeadChip design. Of the 60,800 SNPs, 50,701 were targeted to euchromatic regions and 10,000 to heterochromatic regions of the 20 soybean chromosomes. In addition, 99 SNPs were targeted to unanchored sequence scaffolds. Of the 60,800 SNPs, a total of 52,041 passed Illumina's manufacturing phase to produce the SoySNP50K iSelect BeadChip. Validation of the SoySNP50K chip with 96 landrace genotypes, 96 elite cultivars and 96 wild soybean accessions showed that 47,337 SNPs were polymorphic and generated successful SNP allele calls. In addition, 40,841 of the 47,337 SNPs (86%) had minor allele frequencies ≥10% among the landraces, elite cultivars and the wild soybean accessions. A total of 620 and 42 candidate regions which may be associated with domestication and recent selection were identified, respectively. The SoySNP50K iSelect SNP beadchip will be a powerful tool for characterizing soybean genetic diversity and linkage disequilibrium, and for constructing high resolution linkage maps to improve the soybean whole genome sequence assembly.
We developed stage of development descriptions which we believe apply to all soybean ( Glycine max (L.) Merr.) genotypes grown in any environment. The descriptions apply to single plants or … We developed stage of development descriptions which we believe apply to all soybean ( Glycine max (L.) Merr.) genotypes grown in any environment. The descriptions apply to single plants or a community of plants and are precise and objective. Vegetative and reproductive development are described separately. Vegetative stages are determined by counting the number of nodes on the main stem, beginning with the unifoliolate node, that have or have had a completely unrolled leaf. Reproductive stages Rl and R2 are based on flowering, R3 and R4 on pod development, R5 and R6 on seed development, and R7 and R8 on maturation. The stage descriptions should enhance soybean research by standardizing descriptions of soybean plant development. The system also will be used by the soybean hail insurance industry for stage determination in adjustment of losses.
Synthesis of the phytohormone ethylene is believed to be essential for many plant developmental processes. The control of ripening in climacteric fruits and vegetables is among the best characterized of … Synthesis of the phytohormone ethylene is believed to be essential for many plant developmental processes. The control of ripening in climacteric fruits and vegetables is among the best characterized of these processes. One approach to reduce ethylene synthesis in plants is metabolism of its immediate precursor, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC). Soil bacteria containing an enzyme, ACC deaminase, were identified by their ability to grow on ACC as a sole nitrogen source. The gene encoding ACC deaminase was cloned and introduced into tomato plants. Reduction in ethylene synthesis in transgenic plants did not cause any apparent vegetative phenotypic abnormalities. However, fruits from these plants exhibited significant delays in ripening, and the mature fruits remained firm for at least 6 weeks longer than the nontransgenic control fruit. These results indicated that ACC deaminase is useful for examining the role of ethylene in many developmental and stress-related processes in plants as well as for extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables whose ripening is mediated by ethylene.
SoyBase, the USDA-ARS soybean genetic database, is a comprehensive repository for professionally curated genetics, genomics and related data resources for soybean. SoyBase contains the most current genetic, physical and genomic … SoyBase, the USDA-ARS soybean genetic database, is a comprehensive repository for professionally curated genetics, genomics and related data resources for soybean. SoyBase contains the most current genetic, physical and genomic sequence maps integrated with qualitative and quantitative traits. The quantitative trait loci (QTL) represent more than 18 years of QTL mapping of more than 90 unique traits. SoyBase also contains the well-annotated ‘Williams 82’ genomic sequence and associated data mining tools. The genetic and sequence views of the soybean chromosomes and the extensive data on traits and phenotypes are extensively interlinked. This allows entry to the database using almost any kind of available information, such as genetic map symbols, soybean gene names or phenotypic traits. SoyBase is the repository for controlled vocabularies for soybean growth, development and trait terms, which are also linked to the more general plant ontologies. SoyBase can be accessed at http://soybase.org.
Abstract Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) provide an abundant source of DNA polymorphisms in a number of eukaryotic species. Information on the frequency, nature, and distribution of SNPs in plant genomes is … Abstract Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) provide an abundant source of DNA polymorphisms in a number of eukaryotic species. Information on the frequency, nature, and distribution of SNPs in plant genomes is limited. Thus, our objectives were (1) to determine SNP frequency in coding and noncoding soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) DNA sequence amplified from genomic DNA using PCR primers designed to complete genes, cDNAs, and random genomic sequence; (2) to characterize haplotype variation in these sequences; and (3) to provide initial estimates of linkage disequilibrium (LD) in soybean. Approximately 28.7 kbp of coding sequence, 37.9 kbp of noncoding perigenic DNA, and 9.7 kbp of random noncoding genomic DNA were sequenced in each of 25 diverse soybean genotypes. Over the &amp;gt;76 kbp, mean nucleotide diversity expressed as Watterson’s θ was 0.00097. Nucleotide diversity was 0.00053 and 0.00111 in coding and in noncoding perigenic DNA, respectively, lower than estimates in the autogamous model species Arabidopsis thaliana. Haplotype analysis of SNP-containing fragments revealed a deficiency of haplotypes vs. the number that would be anticipated at linkage equilibrium. In 49 fragments with three or more SNPs, five haplotypes were present in one fragment while four or less were present in the remaining 48, thereby supporting the suggestion of relatively limited genetic variation in cultivated soybean. Squared allele-frequency correlations (r2) among haplotypes at 54 loci with two or more SNPs indicated low genome-wide LD. The low level of LD and the limited haplotype diversity suggested that the genome of any given soybean accession is a mosaic of three or four haplotypes. To facilitate SNP discovery and the development of a transcript map, subsets of four to six diverse genotypes, whose sequence analysis would permit the discovery of at least 75% of all SNPs present in the 25 genotypes as well as 90% of the common (frequency &amp;gt;0.10) SNPs, were identified.
Drought stress is a major constraint to the production and yield stability of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. For developing high yielding varieties under drought conditions, the most widely employed … Drought stress is a major constraint to the production and yield stability of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. For developing high yielding varieties under drought conditions, the most widely employed criterion has traditionally been direct selection for yield stability over multiple locations. However, this approach is time consuming and labor intensive, because yield is a highly quantitative trait with low heritability, and influenced by differences arising from soil heterogeneity and environmental factors. The alternative strategy of indirect selection using secondary traits has succeeded only in a few crops, due to problems with repeatability and lack of phenotyping strategies, especially for root-related traits. Considerable efforts have been directed towards identifying traits associated with drought resistance in soybean. With the availability of the whole genome sequence, physical maps, genetics and functional genomics tools, integrated approaches using molecular breeding and genetic engineering offer new opportunities for improving drought resistance in soybean. Genetic engineering for drought resistance with candidate genes has been reported in the major food crops, and efforts for developing drought-resistant soybean lines are in progress. The objective of this review is to consolidate the current knowledge of physiology, molecular breeding and func-tional genomics which may be influential in integrating breeding and genetic engineering approaches for drought resistance in soybean.
In order to assess the feasibility of using microsatellites as markers in plant genetics, a survey of published DNA sequence data for presence, abundance and ubiquity in higher plants of … In order to assess the feasibility of using microsatellites as markers in plant genetics, a survey of published DNA sequence data for presence, abundance and ubiquity in higher plants of all types of dinucleotide and trinucleotide repeats with a minimum number of 10 and 7 units, respectively, was conducted. This search revealed that such microsatellites are frequent and widely distributed; they were uncovered in 34 species, with a frequency of one every 50 kb. AT repeats were by far the most frequently observed class of dinucleotide microsatellites, whereas AC/TG repeats, which are common in animals, were observed only once. TAT repeats prevailed among trinucleotides. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of (AT)n and (TAT)n microsatellites in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) revealed that they are highly polymorphic, as a consequence of length variation, somatically stable and inherited in a co-dominant Mendelian manner. The abundance and amount of information derived from such markers, together with the ease by which they can be identified, make them ideal markers for plant genetic linkage and physical mapping, population studies and varietal identification.
Abstract The objective of this work was to ascertain the presence and degree of simple sequence repeat (SSR) DNA length polymorphism in the soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. A search … Abstract The objective of this work was to ascertain the presence and degree of simple sequence repeat (SSR) DNA length polymorphism in the soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. A search of GenBank revealed no (CA)n or (GT)n SSRs with n greater than 8 in soybean. In contrast, 5 (AT)n and 1 (ATT)n SSRs with n ranging from 14 to 27 were detected. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers to regions flanking the six SSR loci were used in PCR amplification of DNA from 43 homozygous soybean genotypes. At three loci, amplification produced one PCR product per genotype and revealed 6, 7 and 8 product length variants (alleles) at the three loci, respectively. F1 hybrids between parents carrying different alleles produced two PCR products identical to the two parents. Codominant segregation of alleles among F2 progeny was demonstrated at each locus. A soybean DNA library was screened for the presence of (CA/GT)n SSRs. Sequencing of positive clones revealed that the longest such SSR was (CA)9. Thus, (CA)n SSRs with n of 15 or more are apparently much less common in soybean than in the human genome. In contrast to humans, (CA)n SSRs will probably not provide an abundant source of genetic markers in soybean. However, the apparent abundance of long (AT)n sequences should allow this SSR to serve as a source of highly polymorphic genetic markers in soybean.
Association analysis is an alternative to conventional family-based methods to detect the location of gene(s) or quantitative trait loci (QTL) and provides relatively high resolution in terms of defining the … Association analysis is an alternative to conventional family-based methods to detect the location of gene(s) or quantitative trait loci (QTL) and provides relatively high resolution in terms of defining the genome position of a gene or QTL. Seed protein and oil concentration are quantitative traits which are determined by the interaction among many genes with small to moderate genetic effects and their interaction with the environment. In this study, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling seed protein and oil concentration in 298 soybean germplasm accessions exhibiting a wide range of seed protein and oil content.A total of 55,159 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using various methods including Illumina Infinium and GoldenGate assays and 31,954 markers with minor allele frequency >0.10 were used to estimate linkage disequilibrium (LD) in heterochromatic and euchromatic regions. In euchromatic regions, the mean LD (r2) rapidly declined to 0.2 within 360 Kbp, whereas the mean LD declined to 0.2 at 9,600 Kbp in heterochromatic regions. The GWAS results identified 40 SNPs in 17 different genomic regions significantly associated with seed protein. Of these, the five SNPs with the highest associations and seven adjacent SNPs were located in the 27.6-30.0 Mbp region of Gm20. A major seed protein QTL has been previously mapped to the same location and potential candidate genes have recently been identified in this region. The GWAS results also detected 25 SNPs in 13 different genomic regions associated with seed oil. Of these markers, seven SNPs had a significant association with both protein and oil.This research indicated that GWAS not only identified most of the previously reported QTL controlling seed protein and oil, but also resulted in narrower genomic regions than the regions reported as containing these QTL. The narrower GWAS-defined genome regions will allow more precise marker-assisted allele selection and will expedite positional cloning of the causal gene(s).
Journal Article The Effect of Boric Acid and Borax on the Broad Bean and certain other Plants Get access Annals of Botany, Volume os-37, Issue 4, October 1923, Pages 629–672, … Journal Article The Effect of Boric Acid and Borax on the Broad Bean and certain other Plants Get access Annals of Botany, Volume os-37, Issue 4, October 1923, Pages 629–672, https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordjournals.aob.a089871 Published: 01 October 1923
Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) is one of the most important oil and protein crops. Ever-increasing soybean consumption necessitates the improvement of varieties for more efficient production. However, both correlations … Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) is one of the most important oil and protein crops. Ever-increasing soybean consumption necessitates the improvement of varieties for more efficient production. However, both correlations among different traits and genetic interactions among genes that affect a single trait pose a challenge to soybean breeding. To understand the genetic networks underlying phenotypic correlations, we collected 809 soybean accessions worldwide and phenotyped them for two years at three locations for 84 agronomic traits. Genome-wide association studies identified 245 significant genetic loci, among which 95 genetically interacted with other loci. We determined that 14 oil synthesis-related genes are responsible for fatty acid accumulation in soybean and function in line with an additive model. Network analyses demonstrated that 51 traits could be linked through the linkage disequilibrium of 115 associated loci and these links reflect phenotypic correlations. We revealed that 23 loci, including the known Dt1, E2, E1, Ln, Dt2, Fan, and Fap loci, as well as 16 undefined associated loci, have pleiotropic effects on different traits. This study provides insights into the genetic correlation among complex traits and will facilitate future soybean functional studies and breeding through molecular design.
Understanding soybean (Glycine max) domestication and improvement at a genetic level is important to inform future efforts to further improve a crop that provides the world's main source of oilseed. … Understanding soybean (Glycine max) domestication and improvement at a genetic level is important to inform future efforts to further improve a crop that provides the world's main source of oilseed. We detect 230 selective sweeps and 162 selected copy number variants by analysis of 302 resequenced wild, landrace and improved soybean accessions at >11× depth. A genome-wide association study using these new sequences reveals associations between 10 selected regions and 9 domestication or improvement traits, and identifies 13 previously uncharacterized loci for agronomic traits including oil content, plant height and pubescence form. Combined with previous quantitative trait loci (QTL) information, we find that, of the 230 selected regions, 96 correlate with reported oil QTLs and 21 contain fatty acid biosynthesis genes. Moreover, we observe that some traits and loci are associated with geographical regions, which shows that soybean populations are structured geographically. This study provides resources for genomics-enabled improvements in soybean breeding.
Chapter 1: How to grow Arabidopsis Chapter 2: Obtaining mutants Chapter 3: Genetic analysis of mutants Chapter 4: How to analyze a mutant phenotypically Chapter 5: How to transform Arabidopsis … Chapter 1: How to grow Arabidopsis Chapter 2: Obtaining mutants Chapter 3: Genetic analysis of mutants Chapter 4: How to analyze a mutant phenotypically Chapter 5: How to transform Arabidopsis Chapter 6: How to isolate a gene defined by a mutation Chapter 7: How to study gene expression Chapter 8: How to study gene function Appendix 1: Where to find information on Arabidopsis Appendix 2: Critical chi-squared values Appendix 3: Cautions Appendix 4: Suppliers
Soybean seed quality is influenced by its soluble sugar composition, with high sucrose content being desirable for nutritional and industrial applications. In contrast, excessive raffinose and stachyose levels are considered … Soybean seed quality is influenced by its soluble sugar composition, with high sucrose content being desirable for nutritional and industrial applications. In contrast, excessive raffinose and stachyose levels are considered undesirable due to their adverse effects on gastrointestinal function in humans and monogastric animals. Therefore, developing soybean mutant lines with elevated sucrose content and optimal raffinose and stachyose content is desirable. In this study, we characterized twelve sucrose synthase genes through a comprehensive phylogenetic tree analysis, synteny analysis, gene structure evaluation, and variations in conserved domains. Additionally, we conducted a TILLING by Sequencing approach to identify EMS mutations in the characterized Sucrose synthase genes. Numerous mutations have been identified in soybean sucrose synthases that resulted in high sucrose content, including the sucrose synthases mutants SL446 (R582W) and F1115 (G249E) on Glyma.02G240400 with a sucrose content of 9.5% and 9.1%, respectively. The obtained soybean mutants with enhanced sugar content can be useful in breeding programs to improve soybean nutritional quality without potential developmental trade-offs.
ABSTRACT Water‐soluble protein (WSP) content determines soybean nutritional value and processing efficiency, yet its genetic and molecular regulation remains poorly understood. Here, we identified Glycine max gibberellic acid‐stimulated Arabidopsis 12 … ABSTRACT Water‐soluble protein (WSP) content determines soybean nutritional value and processing efficiency, yet its genetic and molecular regulation remains poorly understood. Here, we identified Glycine max gibberellic acid‐stimulated Arabidopsis 12 ( GmGASA12 ), encoding a gibberellin‐regulated protein, as a major quantitative trait locus (QTL) governing WSP, through genome‐wide association studies across five environments. Knockout of GmGASA12 resulted in 28.7% higher WSP content, 27.6% enlarged seed cells, and 20% yield increase, while overexpression suppressed these traits. Hormonal profiling revealed that GmGASA12 knockout elevates gibberellin, auxin, and abscisic acid but reduces cytokinin, driving cell expansion and protein body accumulation. GmGASA12 cooperatively regulates the biosynthesis of β‐conglycinin and glycinin, the core storage proteins in soybean seeds, through its interaction with GmCG‐6. Transcriptomics linked GmGASA12 to nitrogen metabolism and hormone signaling, with knockout upregulating amino acid transporters ( GmAAP3/6/27 ) and storage protein genes ( GmCG‐1–6 ). Evolutionary analyses demonstrated strong selection for elite GmGASA12 haplotypes during domestication, with 94% of cultivars harboring favorable alleles. Our findings establish GmGASA12 as a molecular hub integrating hormonal dynamics and protein interaction to enhance soybean quality and yield, offering a pivotal target for breeding nutrient‐dense varieties.
Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is a globally significant crop that provides essential meal protein and vegetable oil for human consumption. The protein content in soybean seeds is a critical … Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is a globally significant crop that provides essential meal protein and vegetable oil for human consumption. The protein content in soybean seeds is a critical factor that affects nutrition regarding human dietary needs as well as livestock feed. Therefore, identifying the key genes that affect the soybean seed protein content is one of the major goals in soybean research. To identify candidate genes and related pathways involved in soybean seed storage protein during seed development, an RNA-seq analysis was conducted in two soybean varieties that differ in protein content. A series of pathways related to seed protein metabolism, including “Photosynthesis”, “TCA cycle”, and “Starch and sucrose metabolism” pathways, were identified through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Seven candidate genes exhibiting two different gene regulation patterns were identified, six of which are directly related to the seed storage protein pathway, and one of which is related to the carbon binding pathway. An integrated analysis of transcriptomic and candidate gene expression trend suggested that 40 days after flowering (DAF) might be a crucial period for seed protein accumulation in soybean. Through a Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), two modules and two novel hub genes were found, which may be highly correlated with seed protein development. These findings might be valuable for a complete understanding of the genetic basis of seed protein content and lay a theoretical foundation for future gene functional identification and breeding efforts in soybean.
Variation in leaf complexity modulates light capture and is a target for crop enhancement. Soybean typically has compound leaves with three leaflets each, but a spontaneous mutation, designated lf2, possesses … Variation in leaf complexity modulates light capture and is a target for crop enhancement. Soybean typically has compound leaves with three leaflets each, but a spontaneous mutation, designated lf2, possesses seven leaflets, offering a means to dissect the molecular mechanisms specifying leaflet number and assess its potential for soybean improvement. However, the developmental and genetic bases of the lf2 mutation remain unknown. Here, we characterize the seven-leaflet phenotype and identify the mutation responsible for the phenotypic changes. Microscopic examination of leaf emergence sites revealed that the seven-leaflet phenotype arises in a two-step process: five leaflets form initially followed by secondary leaflet initiation at the margins of the central leaflet. Genetic mapping delineated lf2 to a ~2.5 Mb region at the start of chromosome 11. Fortuitously, integration of pedigree analysis with comparative analysis of genomic sequences from the region pinpointed a 2-bp deletion in the coding sequence of a gene, which is homologous to the Arabidopsis KNAT7 encoding a KNOTTED1-LIKE HOMEOBOX 2 transcription factor, as the sole candidate for Lf2. The deletion is predicted to result in disruption of the putative DNA-binding homeodomain. Expression of the wild-type allele of the candidate gene in the seven-leaflet lf2 mutant restored the three-leaflet phenotype, while disruption of the wild-type allele through CRISPR-Cas9 editing induced extra leaflet formation. This study advances our understanding of leaflet formation in legumes and provides a template for utilizing compound leaf architecture to optimize photosynthetic efficiency and yield in soybean.
Thrips flavus (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is a Eurasian pest that primarily attacks a variety of cash crops such as soybean. Currently, there is insufficient knowledge of thrips-resistance mechanisms in soybeans and … Thrips flavus (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is a Eurasian pest that primarily attacks a variety of cash crops such as soybean. Currently, there is insufficient knowledge of thrips-resistance mechanisms in soybeans and a lack of effective thrips-resistant soybean varieties. The objective of this study was to identify the correlation between the pest thrips, T. flavus, resistance levels and morphological structures of soybean varieties. A total of 41 spring soybean varieties were planted in a field in Northeast China. Observations were made regarding the infestation intensity of T. flavus, the morphological structures (compound leaf shape, leaf length, leaf width, leaf surface humidity, trichome density, length, and color), leaf SPAD value, leaf nitrogen content, etc. Specifically, leaf trichome density (regardless of whether it was on the upper or lower surfaces of the upper, middle, or lower leaves), trichome color, and compound leaf shape all showed significant positive correlations with the amount of T. flavus. Additionally, principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that, during the peak flowering stage, leaf width, trichome length, trichome density, SPAD value, and nitrogen content were key factors for evaluating resistance; meanwhile, during the podding stage, leaf length, SPAD value, nitrogen content, and leaf surface humidity made the most significant contributions. Field resistance screening using the number of T. flavus per meter of double rows, the average number of T. flavus per plant, and hierarchical cluster analysis yielded consistent results. The soybean variety “podless-trichome” is a thrips-resistant variety (high resistance), and “Jinong 29” is a thrips-sensitive variety (high sensitivity). This study provides valuable insights into the occurrence of insect resistance to thrips in soybean varieties.
Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill), major leguminous crop rich in protein and oil, plays a critical role in human nutrition and sustainable agriculture. Genetic diversity analysis is vibrant to identify … Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill), major leguminous crop rich in protein and oil, plays a critical role in human nutrition and sustainable agriculture. Genetic diversity analysis is vibrant to identify better parents for developing high-yielding cultivars with improved agronomic traits. The present investigation was undertaken during Kharif 2024 at the Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Morena, RVSKVV, Gwalior, M.P., India to evaluate genetic divergence among 60 elite soybean genotypes. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with two replications, and observations were recorded on 13 quantitative traits. Mahalanobis’ D² statistic and Tocher’s clustering method were employed to estimate genetic divergence, while Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to identify main contributors of traits to create variability. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into 14 distinct clusters, with maximum intra-cluster distance observed in Cluster IV (139.66) while highest inter-cluster divergence (D² = 456.59) between Clusters XIII and VIII, suggesting potential for creating superior recombinants through hybridization. Cluster VIII displayed the highest mean seed yield per plant (19.56 g), along with higher values for numbers of pods per plant and seeds per plant, and harvest index. PCA revealed five principal components with eigenvalues &gt;1.0, collectively accounting for 77.39% of the total variation. Genotypes like JS-21-17, Cat492A, NRC-142, and AUKS-21-5 were identified as promising based on high PC scores and desirable agronomic traits. The study emphasizes the utility of multivariate analysis in identifying genetically diverse and agronomically superior soybean genotypes. These genotypes hold significant promise as parental lines in future breeding programmes aimed to enhance yield potential, stress tolerance, and overall productivity in soybean.
Aims: Soybean (Glycine max L.) is highly susceptible to weed competition during its early growth stages, which can cause significant yield losses if not managed properly. Therefore, a field experiment … Aims: Soybean (Glycine max L.) is highly susceptible to weed competition during its early growth stages, which can cause significant yield losses if not managed properly. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of different weed management practices, including chemical (Pendimethalin, Metribuzin, Imazethapyr, and their combinations) and manual (one-hand and two-hand weeding), on soybean yield, growth attributes, weed density, and weed biomass. Study Design: This experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted over two consecutive years of 2022/23 and 2023/24 at the Grain Legumes Research Program (GLRP), Khajura, Banke, Nepal. Methodology: The experiment consisted of eight weed management treatments viz., Pendimethalin, Pendimethalin and Imazethapyr, Metribuzin, Metribuzin and Imazethapyr, Imazethapyr, One hand weeding, Two hand weeding and Unweeded. Results: Results demonstrated that weed management significantly influenced key yield components, i.e, days to flowering, number of pods per plant and 100-seed weight. Among treatments, two-hand weeding produced the highest grain yield (1841 kg ha⁻¹), followed by one-hand weeding (1709 kg ha⁻¹), while the lowest yield was recorded in the unweeded control (746 kg ha⁻¹). The combination of Pendimethalin+Imazethapyr was the most effective chemical treatment in suppressing weed dry biomass (19.7 g/0.5 m²) and improving yield-related traits. Although manual weeding effectively reduced weed competition and maximized yield, it was less efficient in reducing total weed biomass compared to integrated chemical treatments at the earlier stage of crop growth. Conclusion: The study concludes that the combination of Pendimethalin and Imazethapyr, offers a sustainable and effective strategy for improving soybean productivity by minimizing weed competition and biomass under field conditions.
Background: Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill.] stands as the leading oilseed crop globally and in India, valued for its dual role as a vegetable oil and protein source. India has … Background: Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill.] stands as the leading oilseed crop globally and in India, valued for its dual role as a vegetable oil and protein source. India has released and notified 176 soybean varieties since the 1970s. This evolution aligns with intellectual property rights, particularly the TRIPS agreement, prompting India to establish the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act in 2001, followed by guidelines for variety protection, including Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) testing for soybean initiated in 2009. As soybean cultivation in India progresses from limited early introductions to a diverse range of genetically enhanced varieties, there remains potential for expanding the morphological characteristics to ensure better differentiation and distinctiveness among varieties. Methods: The ICAR-Indian Institute of Soybean Research, Indore, studied 127 soybean varieties released for commercial cultivation in India between 2016 and 2022 during each kharif (rainy) season. A total of 127 released and notified soybean varieties were observed for seedling hypocotyl pigmentation, leaf shape, leaf size, inflorescence pattern, leaf blistering, pod color, seed color, seed hilum color, pod pubescence, by randomly selecting a group of 20 plants from each plot for the respective varieties following PPV andFRA guidelines. Result: Our findings revealed discrepancies in trait identification among several varieties based on DUS guidelines. We identified opportunities to expand these guidelines by incorporating additional traits like categorizing hypocotyl anthocyanin pigmentation as high, medium, low, or absent; classifying leaf shapes into lanceolate, triangular, pointed ovate and round ovate; and assessing leaf size and blistering. Inflorescence patterns, seed colour, hilum colour and pod colour should also be better defined. This finding underscores the importance of re-evaluating existing assessment criteria to include such traits, which could enhance the understanding and classification of soybean varieties.
Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a vital legume crop known for its high protein and oil content. With growing global demand for nutritionally superior and climate-resilient cultivars, the present investigation … Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a vital legume crop known for its high protein and oil content. With growing global demand for nutritionally superior and climate-resilient cultivars, the present investigation was undertaken to evaluate different biochemical parameters in soybean genotypes. A total of 92 genotypes were evaluated for five biochemical parameters including total chlorophyll, protein, phenol, moisture and total sugar contents employing standard protocols. Significant genotypic variation was evident for all parameters, highlighting the presence of biochemical diversity within the genotypes. Total chlorophyll content ranged from 41.78 to 54.75 mg/ml, protein from 34.05% to 42.05%, phenol in between 1.02 to 2.58 mg/g, moisture from 3.2% to 5.9%, while total sugar arrayed between 3.05 to 5.98 mg/g. Genotypes such as RVS23-11, NRC253, RVSM2011-35, NRC259 and DLSB40 were recognized as superior on the basis of different biochemical parameters. These biochemical attributes are closely associated with photosynthetic efficiency, nutritional value, stress tolerance and seed storability. The study provides a scientific basis for the selection of elite genotypes for breeding programmes focused on bio-fortification and climate resilience. Future research should emphasize the genetic dissection of these traits through molecular tools and multi-environmental testing to ensure their stability and adaptability under diverse agro-climatic conditions.
Background: Adapting large-seeded soybean to drought stress is essential, requiring development drought-tolerant cultivars and management practices to sustain yield under water-limited conditions. This study aimed to evaluate and identify drought-tolerant … Background: Adapting large-seeded soybean to drought stress is essential, requiring development drought-tolerant cultivars and management practices to sustain yield under water-limited conditions. This study aimed to evaluate and identify drought-tolerant soybean genotypes using drought indices in order to recommend promising genotypes for cultivation in drought-affecting regions. Methods: The experiment employed Split-Plot Design in Completely Randomized Design. The main plots were drought stress levels consisting of four levels, non-stress, 10% PEG6000, 20% PEG6000 and 65% field capacity. The sub-plots were 20 large-seeded soybean genotypes, replicated four times. Based on yield performance under non-stress (Yp) and drought stress (Ys), drought indices (Stress tolerance index, Stress adaptation index, geometric mean productivity, mean productivity, harmonic mean, yield stability index, yield index, drought response index, tolerance index, stress susceptibility Index) were calculated, Pearson correlation and PCA biplot analyses were computed. All statistical analyses were done using the SmartStatXL add-in. Result: Seed yield of large-seeded soybean genotypes varied significantly under different drought stress levels. Drought tolerance indices, STI, SAI, GMP, MP, HM, DRI and YSI, were strong positive correlated with yield, confirming their effectiveness in identifying drought-tolerant and stable genotypes. PCA biplot analysis effectively separated drought-tolerant from susceptible genotypes and classified Grobogan, Dega-1, KH-1 and Biosay-2 as tolerant under 10% PEG6000 » -0.19 MPa, Grobogan, Dega-1, KH-1 and Burangrang under 20% PEG6000 » -0.67MPa and Grobogan and Dega-1 under 65% field capacity. Of all the drought stress, Grobogan and Dega-1 consistently exhibited superior yield and drought tolerance, making them valuable genetic resources for breeding drought-tolerance soybean.
ABSTRACT Floral transition is crucial for crop productivity and environmental adaptability. As a photoperiod‐sensitive crop, the flowering time of soybean is intricately regulated by environmental signals. Here, we show that … ABSTRACT Floral transition is crucial for crop productivity and environmental adaptability. As a photoperiod‐sensitive crop, the flowering time of soybean is intricately regulated by environmental signals. Here, we show that short‐term changes of photoperiod or temperature significantly affected soybean flowering time. Through an integrative analysis of transcriptomic and epigenomic data, we revealed that short‐term exposure to inductive short day promoted floral transition via suppressing the expression of a bHLH family gene, GmbHLH68 , along with the alteration of H3K27me3 modification on the locus, while short‐term high temperature had contrary effects. We establish that GmbHLH68 directly binds to and activates GmFT2a ( FLOWERING LOCUS T2a ) expression, forming a critical regulatory module through which short‐term photoperiod and temperature changes control flowering time in soybean. Genetic knockout of either gene abolished photothermal signal responsiveness. Interestingly, GmbHLH68 could as well bind to and promote the expression of GmRGA2L ( RGA2‐like ) and GmFT4 , two inhibitors of floral transition. This bidirectional regulation may fine‐tune the impact of short‐term environmental changes, enabling exquisite control of flowering time. Thus, GmbHLH68 is a central regulator of flowering in response to provisional photothermal changes. Our findings may shed light on soybean cultivar improvement for stable yield during a changing environment.
Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), also known as fall armyworm, is one of the main pests in corn and is becoming increasingly frequent in soybean. Due to its … Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), also known as fall armyworm, is one of the main pests in corn and is becoming increasingly frequent in soybean. Due to its polyphagous nature, it adapts rapidly to host plants, and the alternation between soybean and corn favors its development and permanence in agricultural environments. The damage caused to soybeans varies according to the larval instars, feeding on seedlings, leaves, shoots, flowers, and pods. The increasing incidence of S. frugiperda in soybean crops and the challenges for its control, including insecticide resistance and genetically modified plants, highlight the urgent need for continuous monitoring and research to develop sustainable and integrated management methods. In this context, the objective of this work was to test the application of the synthetic sex pheromone Pherogen® Spray FAW, which aims to suppress the mating of S. frugiperda through mating disruption. Pherogen® Spray FAW was responsible for reducing the capture of male S. frugiperda moths and reducing the population of this species in commercial Bt soybean crops in three different Brazilian states. These results suggest that the use of behavioral management, through mating disruption with pheromones, is a control alternative, as there is greater difficulty for males to find females and mate, consequently, reducing the population of caterpillars.
Microorganisms and biological products used as biofertilizers can play a crucial role in crops such as soybean, where fertilization management is essential for improving both productivity and the sustainability of … Microorganisms and biological products used as biofertilizers can play a crucial role in crops such as soybean, where fertilization management is essential for improving both productivity and the sustainability of agricultural practices. These technologies enhance plant development and crop yield by improving soil conditions in the root zone. This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic efficiency of a Bacillus-based seed inoculant on soybean growth and yield under different soil conditions. Four experiments were conducted, each including five treatments: a control, Biophosphoros® inoculant at 2 mL commercial product kg-1 of seed, and the Bacillus-based inoculant at 1,1.5, and 2mL commercial product kg-1 of seed. Evaluations included leaf concentrations of N, P, K, Mn, and Zn, yield components (grains per pod, pods per plant, thousand-grain weight), and overall grain yield. The results demonstrated that in sandy clay soil (Area 1) and sandy soil (Area 3), the Bacillus-based inoculant at 2 mL kg-1 was more effective than Biophosphoros® in increasing leaf P (Area 1) and K (Area 3) concentrations, the number of grains per pod, and soybean yield (3,851.02 and 3,122.08 kg ha-1, respectively). In contrast, in clay-textured soil (Area 4), the most efficient treatment was the biological soil conditioner at 3.5 L ton-1. Additionally, the use of the Bacillus-based inoculant significantly increased soybean yield compared to the uninoculated control in Area 2 (average yield of 3,489.39 kg ha-1) and Area 4 (3,306.07 kg ha-1).
The aim of this study was to evaluate the progress of five soybean varieties in relation to resistance to water unavailability. The cultivars BRS 1010IPRO, 80182RSF IPRO, M 6410 IPRO, … The aim of this study was to evaluate the progress of five soybean varieties in relation to resistance to water unavailability. The cultivars BRS 1010IPRO, 80182RSF IPRO, M 6410 IPRO, NS 7676 and TMG 2370 IPRO were evaluated. Water scarcity occurs when water availability reaches very low levels, impairing the absorption that is essential for the progress of plant development, with effects such as leaf wilting and low efficiency. The study was carried out under monitored conditions, with irrigation stopped after phenological stage V-1. Physiological parameters were analyzed: relative leaf water content (RWC), aerial part dry mass (ASM), plant height (PH) and chlorophyll index (CI). The results indicated that the BRS 1010IPRO and 80182RSF IPRO cultivars showed greater tolerance, maintaining better physiological indices. It is concluded that these cultivars are suitable for cultivation in regions characterized by low rainfall.
Precision agriculture facilitates improved management by studying the spatial and temporal variability of soil attributes. Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) seeds may exhibit distinct quality when produced in different management … Precision agriculture facilitates improved management by studying the spatial and temporal variability of soil attributes. Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) seeds may exhibit distinct quality when produced in different management zones. This study aimed to validate management zones during seed production and identify the variability and spatial distribution of soybean seed physiological quality using geostatistical tools. Management zones were defined based on interpolated maps of soil and vegetation attributes using the Smart Map Plugin (SMP) within the QGIS environment. Post-harvest, the variability of physiological seed quality across different management zones was assessed. Germination, accelerated aging, dry weight, emergence, electrical conductivity, and tetrazolium tests were conducted in a completely randomized design. Soil attributes, initial plant stand, and soybean seed productivity validated the management zones. Physiological seed quality varies across the production field, particularly in terms of vigor, thereby enhancing diagnostics through map interpolation. Geostatistics enable determination of the spatial distribution of soybean seed physiological quality in seed production areas, facilitating decision-making regarding harvest zones.
To elucidate improved germplasm for grain yield and seed protein content, ten soybean accessions were evaluated in a replicated randomized complete block design. This study reveals substantial phenotypic variation, with … To elucidate improved germplasm for grain yield and seed protein content, ten soybean accessions were evaluated in a replicated randomized complete block design. This study reveals substantial phenotypic variation, with protein content spanning 34.48% to 42.10%. PK-7394 recorded the highest protein level (42.10%) but showed reduced grain yield, whereas Hardee produced a maximum yield of 3.89 t ha⁻¹. TGX-1990-114FN combined high protein content (40.98%) with competitive yield (3.85 t ha⁻¹), thereby corroborating its potential as a prime genetic resource. Correlational analyses revealed positive associations between grain yield and nodule count (r = 0.55) as well as seed diameter (r = 0.16). Protein content exhibited a high Shannon-Wiener diversity index (1.09), highlighting variability across accessions. By integrating high yield and enhanced protein content, TGX-1990-114FN emerged as an optimal genetic resource for breeding programs focused on developing high-yielding and nutritionally enriched soybean varieties. Such findings offer valuable insights into advancing agricultural productivity and addressing global food security challenges.
Green soybean (Glycine max), commonly known as vegetable soybean or edamame, is harvested at reproductive stages 6 to 7 of pod development. At this stage, the seeds are fully grown … Green soybean (Glycine max), commonly known as vegetable soybean or edamame, is harvested at reproductive stages 6 to 7 of pod development. At this stage, the seeds are fully grown but still green and not yet mature. Green soybean is a nutritious food high in protein and micronutrients; however, low temperatures negatively impact its production and quality. The mechanisms underlying cold stress in green soybean remain unclear. This study aims to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and key pathways associated with cold tolerance through a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of cold stress responses in a cold-tolerant green soybean variety at three time points: 3 h, 12 h, and 24 h. We identified 3415 common DEGs across three time points, with significant enrichment in categories such as “rhythmic process”, “response to blue light”, “fatty acid metabolism”, and “fatty acid degradation”. Notably, expression patterns of these pathways were similar after 3 and 24 h of cold exposure. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed 20 distinct modules, with two principal modules—turquoise and blue—correlating with rhythmic processes and fatty acid pathways. Additionally, we analyzed the genetic regulatory networks within these modules and identified four candidate genes (Glyma.04G015200, Glyma.18G202800, Glyma.02G123700 and Glyma.13G266500) potentially linked to cold tolerance. This study enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of cold stress in green soybean and highlights key cold-responsive genes for further research.
Abstract Increasing the ability of crop plants to maintain productivity in saline-alkaline lands is an absolute requirement for feeding the growing population. However, a shortage of knowledge about plant alkaline … Abstract Increasing the ability of crop plants to maintain productivity in saline-alkaline lands is an absolute requirement for feeding the growing population. However, a shortage of knowledge about plant alkaline tolerance restricts breeding of salt-tolerant crops. Here we demonstrate that a homolog of the circadian clock component LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL (LHY) negatively regulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis and time-gates oxidative stress responses under NaHCO3 conditions in soybean (Glycine max). Yeast one-hybrid assays followed by chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with quantitative PCR, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and dual-luciferase reporter assays revealed that LHY1b binds directly to the promoter of Alternative Oxidase 1 (AOX1). Through immunoblotting using AOX1 antibody, we demonstrated that AOX1 accumulates considerably in lhy1b under NaHCO3 conditions. LHY1b strongly inhibits AOX1 transcription under normal growth conditions. However, this inhibition is removed under alkaline stress, allowing the expression of AOX1 and restricting the generation of ROS. Knockdown of AOX1 in lhy1b renders this mutant more sensitive to alkaline stress. Moreover, we determined that the naturally occurring LHY1bH2 allele is associated with alkaline tolerance by phenotyping 559 sequenced soybean accessions. Our study demonstrates a molecular link between clock components and alkaline tolerance and provides a valuable target gene for breeding alkaline-tolerant soybean varieties.
Tubby-like proteins (TLPs) are essential multifunctional transcription factors in plants that significantly influence plant growth and development, signal transduction, and adaptation to environmental stress. Despite their importance, there is limited … Tubby-like proteins (TLPs) are essential multifunctional transcription factors in plants that significantly influence plant growth and development, signal transduction, and adaptation to environmental stress. Despite their importance, there is limited knowledge of the identification and functional roles of the TLP gene family in the common bean. In this study, we identified the PvTLP gene family, which consists of 10 PvTLP genes distributed unevenly across seven chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these genes could be classified into three subfamilies (A, B, and C). All PvTLP proteins contained both conserved tubby and F-box domains, with the exception of PvTLP7, which lacks the F-box domain. Conserved motif analysis revealed that 10 PvTLP genes contained motif 1 and motif 3. Cis-acting elements analysis indicated that PvTLP genes might be involved in light, hormone, and stress responses. Synteny analysis revealed a closer phylogenetic relationship between the common bean and dicotyledons than monocotyledons. qRT-PCR analysis confirmed the significant differences in the expression of most PvTLP genes in both leaves and roots under salt and drought stresses. These findings provide valuable insights for further exploration of the molecular functions of TLPs in plant responses to various stresses and offer key candidate genes for enhancing stress resistance in the common bean through molecular breeding.
&lt;p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 120%; layout-grid-mode: char; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; margin: 12.0pt 0cm 6.0pt 0cm;"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 120%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif;"&gt;The … &lt;p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 120%; layout-grid-mode: char; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; margin: 12.0pt 0cm 6.0pt 0cm;"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 120%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif;"&gt;The use of organomineral products in agriculture offers promising solutions for crop productivity and sustainability. This study examines the effects of foliar application of a biostimulant containing &lt;em&gt;Ascophyllum nodosum&lt;/em&gt; algae extract and a blend of amino acids on black mung bean (&lt;em&gt;Vigna radiata&lt;/em&gt; L.), focusing on its potential to modulate beneficial biochemical responses. Under greenhouse conditions, total chlorophyll content was 20% higher (198 &amp;micro;g/g) in treated plants than in untreated controls (167 &amp;micro;g/g). Carotenoid concentrations were also higher (115 &amp;micro;g/g) in treated plants compared to 98 &amp;micro;g/g in the control plants. Considering redox system enzymes, catalase (4180 nmol/&amp;micro;g), peroxidase (6656 nmol/&amp;micro;g), and superoxide dismutase (5546 nmol/&amp;micro;g) activities were lower in treated plants compared to untreated ones (6982 nmol/&amp;micro;g for catalase, 9635 nmol/&amp;micro;g for peroxidase, and 10,403 nmol/&amp;micro;g for superoxide dismutase). However, given the higher levels of photosynthetic pigments observed in treated plants, antioxidant activity may be primarily attributed to non-enzymatic mechanisms, such as carotenoids, which were also elevated relative to controls. These findings demonstrate the potential of the organomineral as a tool for the physiological management of agriculturally important crops, particularly black mung bean. In this context, its adoption holds the potential to significantly improve agricultural productivity and crop resilience.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
Cellulases are a crucial class of enzymes involved in cellulose synthesis and metabolism, significantly contributing to plant growth, development, and organ abscission. The role of Glycosyl hydrolase family 9 (GH9), … Cellulases are a crucial class of enzymes involved in cellulose synthesis and metabolism, significantly contributing to plant growth, development, and organ abscission. The role of Glycosyl hydrolase family 9 (GH9), a major gene family encoding cellulase, remains poorly elucidated in soybean. In this experiment, we identified 43 non-redundant GmGH9 genes in soybean through systematic genome-wide analysis. The physicochemical properties of GmGH9 proteins exhibit variability. Phylogenetic investigations revealed that class B constitutes the predominant evolutionary branch. The GmGH9B/C members display complex splicing patterns. GmGH9As contain typical transmembrane structural domains, while GmGH9Cs uniquely includes the carbohydrate-binding module 49 (CBM49) and signal peptide. Furthermore, we identified 13 distinct types of functional motifs, with light-responsive elements being predominant. Expression profiling of the GmGH9s in soybean revealed spatiotemporal and stress-regulated dynamics across organs, ethylene treatments, and photoperiodic conditions, especially for GmGH9A9 and GmGH9B19 . Multi-species collinearity analysis of GH9 genes suggested that GmGH9A2 and GmGH9C4 exhibited greater conservation in pea, tomato, and soybean, which are distinguished by fruit abscission. Additional correlations between the haplotypes of GmGH9A2 and GmGH9C4 and yield-related traits indicated that soybean experienced selected pressure during domestication, resulting in a reduction in their genetic diversity.
A utilização de adubos fosfatados solúveis aplicados via foliar podem elevar a quantidade de fósforo disponível para a planta e aumentar a produtividade da cultura implantada. Este estudo teve como … A utilização de adubos fosfatados solúveis aplicados via foliar podem elevar a quantidade de fósforo disponível para a planta e aumentar a produtividade da cultura implantada. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência dos adubos foliares MAP Purificado® e Intacto® na produtividade da cultura da soja. O experimento foi conduzido na fazenda experimental do Instituto Federal do Tocantins – Campus Colinas do Tocantins. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o de blocos casualizados (DBC), consistindo em seis tratamentos e quatro repetições. O MAP Purificado® foi testado nas doses de 1 kg.ha-1 (MAP 1) e 2 kg.ha-1 (MAP 2); já o Intacto® foi aplicado com as doses de 0,25 L.ha-1 (T 0,25), 0,5 L.ha-1 (T 0,5) e 1 L.ha-1 (T1) e um tratamento controle. Os produtos foram aplicados nos estádios fenológicos vegetativo 4 (V4) e 8 (V8) da cultura. A parcela útil possuía 6 m2 e nela foram avaliados a altura de planta, o teor de clorofila A e B, o peso de mil grãos e a produtividade. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância para a comparação das médias e realizou-se o teste de Tukey com um nível de significância de 5%. As doses testadas neste trabalho não evidenciaram diferença estatística para as variáveis analisadas. Conclui-se que, nas condições nas quais este trabalho foi realizado, tanto o MAP Purificado® quanto o Intacto® não interferem significativamente nos fatores de produtividade da soja.
Achieving optimal soybean productivity requires careful consideration of several key agronomic factors. Field trials were carried out in the Teaching and Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary … Achieving optimal soybean productivity requires careful consideration of several key agronomic factors. Field trials were carried out in the Teaching and Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Buea, during the 2022 and 2023 cropping seasons to assess the effect of plant spacing and weeding intervals on weeds, growth components, and yield of TGX 2010- 2F soybean variety. A 4x4 factorial combination of four plants spacing (30cm x 20cm, 30cm x 30cm, 40cm x 30cm, and 75cm x 50cm) and four weeding intervals (one-hand weeding at two weeks after sowing (WAS), one-hand weeding 3WAS, one-hand weeding 4WAS and one-hand weeding 5WAS) were laid out in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Analysis of variance for lumped data for the 2 years revealed that plant spacing significantly (P&lt;0.05) influenced plant height, number of branches, stem girth, number of pods, grain yield, and weed components while weeding intervals significantly influenced all the soybean growth components, grain yield, and all weed parameters. The interaction effect of plant spacing and weeding intervals had significant (P&lt;0.05) impacts on the number of branches, stem girth, grain yield, and weed parameters. The most abundant weed families were the Poaceae (03) and Asteraceae (03), followed by the Lamiaceae (02), Amaranthaceae, Brassicaceae, and Oxalidaceae, each of which recorded one species. Significantly higher plant height (28.68±1.7cm), number of pods (87.08 ± 6.26/m2), and grain yield (3.48±0.29 tons/ha) were observed under 30cm x 20cm plant spacing. Additionally, higher weed fresh weight of 769.30±92.3 g/m2, weed dry weight of 748.90±92.3 g/m2 and weed biomass of 0.46±0.06 tons/ha and the lowest grain yield of 2.04±0.28 tons/ha were recorded under one-hand weeding at 5WAS treatments. The highest grain yield, 4.38±0.03 tons/ha, was obtained from the interaction of 30cm x 20cm plant spacing and one-hand weeding 2WAS treatments. These results suggest that narrow plant spacing of 30cm x 20cm and practicing one-hand weeding at 2WAS will improve the productivity and reduce labour, thus making it agronomically feasible for TGX 2010-2F soybean production
Introduction: Vegetable soybean is emerging as a valuable crop due to its nutritional and economic benefits. However, its genetic and phenotypic diversity remains less explored com-pared to grain-type soybeans. This … Introduction: Vegetable soybean is emerging as a valuable crop due to its nutritional and economic benefits. However, its genetic and phenotypic diversity remains less explored com-pared to grain-type soybeans. This study aimed to evaluate the breeding potential of vegetable soy-beans through a comparative analysis of grain- and vegetable-type genotypes. Methods: Ten soybean genotypes (six vegetable-type and four grain-type) were characterized using phenotypic, reproductive, and genetic trait evaluations. Observations included growth stages, pod traits, and yield-related characteristics. Statistical analyses such as ANOVA, GCV, heritability es-timates, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), hierarchical and Tocher’s clustering, and Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) marker analysis were conducted to assess trait variability and genetic di-versity. Results: Significant genotype-specific variation was observed. EC892880 matured fastest (R1-R7 in 37-57 days), while RKS-18 took 112 days. EC892882 exhibited the longest pod length (5.63 cm), and EC892880 had the highest number of pods per cluster (6.93). High genetic control was noted for days to 50% flowering (GCV: 27.42%, heritability: 99.89%) and test weight (GCV: 25.38%, heritability: 99.74%). PCA revealed that days to pod setting and maturity (R7) were the primary contributors to phenotypic variation, with PC1 and PC2 accounting for 84.5% of the total variance. Tocher’s analysis showed the highest genetic divergence (D² = 28,292.49) between Clus-ters II and III. Among 45 SSR markers, 41 were amplified but showed no polymorphism. Discussion: The results highlight substantial phenotypic diversity among genotypes, especially in maturity duration and yield-related traits, with some traits under strong genetic control. However, the lack of SSR polymorphism suggests limited molecular diversity, indicating the need for more robust genomic tools. Vegetable-type soybeans showed high intra-group similarity, which may limit genetic gain unless broader diversity is introduced. Conclusion: This study identifies key traits and diverse genotypes suitable for targeted breeding in vegetable soybeans. The findings emphasize the potential of phenotypic selection and highlight the urgent need for enhanced genomic marker development to facilitate molecular breeding efforts in vegetable soybean improvement.