Biotech Updates

New DuPont Markers for Soybean Productivity

July 4, 2008

Pioneer Hi-Bred recently announced that it has identified and incorporated new proprietary molecular markers into its soybean research program. The new markers will aid in the development of soybeans resistant to Asian soybean rust, soybean aphids and frogeye leaf spot. The company plans to commercialize soybean varieties carrying multiple sources of Asian soybean rust resistance by 2012 in Brazil and by 2013 in the United States. Frogeye leaf spot-resistant and soybean aphid-resistant soybean varieties will be released by the company in 2011.

Molecular markers act as genetic road signs, indicating where scientists should look on a segment of DNA for genes related to a specific trait. Once molecular markers are identified, researchers can use DNA analysis early in product development to screen for the presence of these specific traits. This ability to screen complements extensive trait-specific field testing, for complex traits, driving greater success in research programs.

To read more, visit http://www.pioneer.com/web/site/portal/menuitem.ada5e752304b6d5ca210a210d10093a0/.