Biotech Updates

Gene Controlling Soybean's Seed Permeability and Calcium Content Identified

June 24, 2015

Seed permeability is one of the factors influencing the production and nutritional content of leguminous crops such as soybean. In a study led by Lianjun Sun from Purdue University, the gene responsible for seed permeability in soybean has been identified.

By examining the wild soybean through a map-based cloning approach, they have discovered that the gene GmHs1-1 was the one controlling seed permeability. Mutation of this gene turns the tough seed coat of wild soybean to become permeable. In addition, the gene was found to be associated with calcium content.

The results indicate the potential of the gene, GmHs1-1, to be used in developing better varieties of soybean and enhancing its nutritional value due to the gene's association with calcium.

The findings of their study can be read at Purdue University website.