Differentially Expressed Genes between the Seeds of Two Soybean Cultivars Identified

A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota conducted a study to identify the genes differentially expressed between the developing seeds of two soybean cultivars, Minsoy and Archer. These two soybean cultivars have different seed weight, yield, protein content and oil content. Hence the genes involved in seed composition and yield will help in understanding the reasons behind these seed trait differences.

The researchers used Affymetrix Soybean GeneChips® to identify the genes differentially expressed between the Minsoy and Archer soybean cultivars. Results show that about 700 probe sets, corresponding to 700 genes were found to be significantly differentially expressed in both soybean cultivars in each seed developmental stages. These probe sets were involved in growth, signal transduction, transcription, defense/stress response and protein and lipid metabolism. Other probe sets were found to be involved in general seed development.

The identification of these genes will help in studying the seed development and provides clues in understanding the genetic mechanisms that regulate seed yield, size, and composition.

The study can be read in the journal Genomics Data.