Exploring candidate genes for soybean protein content using BSA seq technology

Soybeans are the main source of human edible oil and plant protein. Identifying genes that regulate soybean protein content is of great significance for improving soybean protein through molecular assisted breeding methods. This study constructed an F₂ isolated population using the Chinese high-quality, high-yield, and low protein soybean variety Heihe 45 as the maternal parent and the European high protein soybean variety YXA12 as the paternal parent. QTL mapping of soybean protein content was performed using mixed pool sequencing technology. A total of 15871 SNP loci were detected on chromosome 20. Genes within the target range were selected and annotated, resulting in a total of 309 target genes. Through further screening through gene annotation, 25 candidate genes that may be related to soybean protein content were preliminarily identified. This experiment provides a theoretical basis for the cloning of soybean protein content genes and the study of protein regulation mechanisms, and provides material and technical support for soybean high protein molecular marker breeding.