Researchers Pinpoint Soybean Gene Involved in Seed Size and Quality

A study published in Theoretical and Applied Genetics reported the vital role of soybean gene GmCDC7 in seed development. The findings from researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences provide new targets for enhancing the yield and quality of soybean and other crops.

GmCDC7 is active in many plant tissues, but the expression peaks during early seed development. The expressed protein of the gene is present in the nucleus, where it impacts the cell behavior. The researchers employed the CRISPR gene editing tool to turn off the gene, which led to larger and heavier soybean seeds as the gene promotes cell expansion while limiting the formation of new cells. Furthermore, the gene-edited soybeans also exhibited a significant increase in protein content and a reduction in oil content.

The results of the study suggest that GmCDC7 plays a critical role in regulating both the size and quality of seeds. This discovery provides insights for forming new strategies for the improvement of soybean varieties and other crops, as similar versions of the gene are also widely present in other crops.

Read more about the study in Theoretical and Applied Genetics.