Researchers have mapped sections of the soybean genome linked to higher levels of lunasin, a natural peptide studied for cancer-preventive, antioxidant and cholesterol-lowering effects, according to a new peer-reviewed study.
The National Science Foundation-funded research, led by Fayetteville State University students under Associate Professor Jiazheng "John" Yuan, identified DNA markers that could help breeders develop soybeans with enhanced health benefits.
"The goal of the study is to provide breeders with scientifically validated, reliable information that can enhance the efficiency of crop improvement," Yuan said.
The team, which included collaborators from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, analyzed 144 diverse soybean lines in a genome-wide scan linking genetic markers to lunasin levels.
Their analysis identified critical DNA markers across 15 chromosomes and revealed 29 high-confidence candidate genes associated with natural variations in lunasin. In one case, a single DNA marker explained about 31% of the observed variation in lunasin content.
The findings, published July 14 in the journal Plants, provide valuable genetic resources for breeding programs aimed at enhancing the nutritional quality of soybeans.
