Genomic Tool to Study Soybean Gene Functions

Genome sequencing could be considered as the first step in the development ladder of genetically modified crops. Once the sequence is completed, the next step is to identify the genes’ function. Scientists have completed the draft sequence of the soybean genome and the complete genome sequence is in sight. Taking the next step, researchers at the University of Missouri demonstrated the applicability of transposons in studying gene functions in soybean. Their work appears in the current issue of the journal Planta.

Transposons are mobile genetic elements that can ‘jump’ around the genome and insert themselves randomly within genes, causing mutations and disruption in gene functions. By tagging transposons, scientists have found that they can screen plants for visible mutations in important agronomic traits, such as seed composition or root growth. Using the tool, the team has identified the gene responsible for male sterility. The scientists aim to construct a repository that will be a resource for the soybean community to study gene function and that, in the long run, "will aid in translating genomics data into information that will ultimately benefit crop performance.”

Read the complete article at http://munews.missouri.edu/news-releases/2008/1201-stacey-jumping-genes.php The paper published by Planta is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00425-008-0827-9