Soybean Research Articles

Comparative transcriptomic analysis provides insights into the genetic networks regulating oil differential production in oil crops

BackgroundPlants differ more than threefold in seed oil contents (SOCs). Soybean (Glycine max), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), rapeseed (Brassica napus), and sesame (Sesamum indicum) are four important oil crops with markedly different SOCs and fatty acid compositions.ResultsCompared to grain crops like maize and rice, expanded acyl-lipid metabolism genes and relatively higher expression levels of genes involved in seed oil synthesis (SOS) in the oil crops contributed to the oil accumulation in seeds. Here, we conducted comparative transcriptomics on oil crops with two different SOC materials. In common, DIHYDROLIPOAMIDE DEHYDROGENASE, STEAROYL-ACYL CARRIER PROTEIN DESATURASE, PHOSPHOLIPID:DIACYLGLYCEROL ACYLTRANSFERASE, and oil-body protein genes were both differentially expressed between the high- and low-oil materials of each crop. By comparing functional components of SOS networks, we found that the strong correlations between genes in “glycolysis/gluconeogenesis” and “fatty acid synthesis” were conserved in both grain and oil crops, with PYRUVATE KINASE being the common factor affecting starch and lipid accumulation. Network alignment also found a conserved clique among oil crops affecting seed oil accumulation, which has been validated in Arabidopsis. Differently, secondary and protein metabolism affected oil synthesis to different degrees in different crops, and high SOC was due to less competition of the same precursors. The comparison of Arabidopsis mutants and wild type showed that CINNAMYL ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENASE 9, the conserved regulator we identified, was a factor resulting in different relative contents of lignins to oil in seeds. The interconnection of lipids and proteins was common but in different ways among crops, which partly led to differential oil production.ConclusionsThis study goes beyond the observations made in studies of individual species to provide new insights into which genes and networks may be fundamental to seed oil accumulation from a multispecies perspective.

GmSABP2-1 encodes methyl salicylate esterase and functions in soybean defense against soybean cyst nematode.

The soybean gene GmSABP2-1 encodes methyl salicylate esterase and its overexpression led to significant reduction in development of pathogenic soybean cyst nematode. Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) is one of the most devastating pests of soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.). In searching for SCN-defense genes, a soybean gene of the methylesterase (MES) family was found to be upregulated in an SCN-resistant soybean line and downregulated in an SCN-susceptible line upon SCN infection. This gene was designated as GmSABP2-1. Here, we report on biochemical and overexpression studies of GmSABP2-1 to examine its possible function in SCN resistance. The protein encoded by GmSABP2-1 is closely related to known methyl salicylate esterases. To determine the biochemical function of GmSABP2-1, a full-length cDNA of GmSABP2-1 was cloned into a protein expression vector and expressed in Escherichia coli. The resulting recombinant GmSABP2-1 was demonstrated to catalyze the demethylation of methyl salicylate. The biochemical properties of GmSABP2-1 were determined. Its apparent Km value was 46.2 ± 2.2μM for methyl salicylate, comparable to those of the known methyl salicylate esterases. To explore the biological significance of GmSABP2-1 in soybean defense against SCN, we first overexpressed GmSABP2-1 in transgenic hairy roots of an SCN-susceptible soybean line. When infected with SCN, GmSABP2-1-overexpressing hairy roots showed 84.5% reduction in the development of SCN beyond J2 stage. To provide further genetic evidence for the role of GmSABP2-1 in SCN resistance, stable transgenic soybean plants overexpressing GmSABP2-1 were produced. Analysis of the GmSABP2-1-overexpressing lines showed a significant reduction in SCN development compared to non-transgenic plants. In conclusion, we demonstrated that GmSABP2-1 encodes methyl salicylate esterase and functions as a resistance-related gene against SCN.

Phytochemical studies in some varieties of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] and their hybrids

In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to congregate the phytochemical studies done on intervarietal F1 hybrids of soybean (Glycine max L.) along with their parents. The eleven F1 hybrids were obtained by intervarietal crossing done using five varieties of soybean viz Bragg(BG), NRC7(NR), Punjab1(PN), PUSA98-14(PU) and JS9560(JS).Estimation of phenols was done by FCR Method using Gallic acid as standard. The total phenolic content was found highest in the cross JSXNR and lowest in BGXNR. Total tannin content was determined using FCR method. Total tannin content was highest in NRXJS and least in BGXPN. In addition, total flavonoids were determined using Alcl3 reagent and antioxidant activity by DPPH method. Total flavonoids was found maximum in PNXNR and least in PUXPN respectively. Highest Antioxidant Activity was 50.31% in JSXPN and lowest was 39.08% in NRXJS. The results suggested that besides protein and oil contents, the phenolic contents should also be considered as an important characteristic feature of soybean seeds, and as a potential selection criterion for antioxidant activity in soybean.

Deciphering genetic factors contributing to enhanced resistance against Cercospora leaf blight in soybean (Glycine max L.) using GWAS analysis

Cercospora leaf blight (CLB), caused by Cercospora cf. flagellaris, C. kikuchii, and C. cf. sigesbeckiae, is a significant soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] disease in regions with hot and humid conditions causing yield loss in the United States and Canada. There is limited information regarding resistant soybean cultivars, and there have been marginal efforts to identify the genomic regions underlying resistance to CLB. A Genome-Wide Association Study was conducted using a diverse panel of 460 soybean accessions from maturity groups III to VII to identify the genomic regions associated to the CLB disease. These accessions were evaluated for CLB in different regions of the southeastern United States over 3 years. In total, the study identified 99 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) associated with the disease severity and 85 SNPs associated with disease incidence. Across multiple environments, 47 disease severity SNPs and 23 incidence SNPs were common. Candidate genes within 10 kb of these SNPs were involved in biotic and abiotic stress pathways. This information will contribute to the development of resistant soybean germplasm. Further research is warranted to study the effect of pyramiding desirable genomic regions and investigate the role of identified genes in soybean CLB resistance.

Seedling Emergence and Growth Can Be Improved by Char Carbon Created During Thermal Treatment of Petroleum-Impacted Soils

ABSTRACT Thermal treatment of soils to remove petroleum hydrocarbons alters soil properties in ways that limit germination potential for plants used in revegetation efforts. However, recent studies have shown that a char material with the potential to offset fertility-reducing effects is produced by the pyrolysis of hydrocarbons during treatment. In this study, seedling emergence and growth (14 days) of two plant species, soybean (Glycine max) and oat (Avena sativa), were evaluated in four soils of contrasting properties treated with 5% (by mass) oil addition and two levels of salt addition. Three temperatures (300, 425, and 550°C) of thermal desorption (TD) and one smolder remediation approach were employed to remove the oil prior to planting. Results indicate that seedling response to temperature of thermal treatment and salt addition is dependent both upon plant species and soil properties. Higher temperatures were necessary to remove crude oil to levels low enough to allow germination. The smoldering approach did not remove enough oil to allow germination. This is the first study to show that early shoot mass and root mass are improved following TD treatment compared with an untreated control under certain conditions. The outcomes will be valuable for designing TD treatments when revegetation is the goal.

Doenjang Ameliorates Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia and Hepatic Oxidative Damage by Improving Lipid Metabolism, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in ICR Mice

Hyperlipidemia, characterized by elevated cholesterol, lipids, and triglycerides in the bloodstream, is linked to hepatic oxidative damage. Doenjang, a traditional Korean condiment made from fermented soybeans, is known for its health benefits, yet its anti-hyperlipidemic effects remain understudied. Our study aimed to assess the hypolipidemic and hepatic protective effects of Doenjang on male ICR mice fed a high-fat cholesterol diet for 8 weeks. Mice were divided into three groups: the normal diet (ND), the high-fat cholesterol diet (HD), and the Doenjang-supplemented HD diet (DS) group. Doenjang supplementation significantly regulated total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol levels compared to the HD group. It also downregulated lipogenic genes, including PPARγ, FAS, and ACC, and positively influenced the cholesterol metabolism-related genes HMGCR and LXR. Moreover, Doenjang intake increased serum glutathione levels, activated oxidative stress defense genes (NRF2, SOD, GPx1, and CAT), positively modulated inflammation genes (NF-kB and IL6) in hepatic tissue, and reduced malondialdehyde levels. Our findings highlight the effectiveness of traditional Doenjang in preventing diet-induced hyperlipidemia and protecting against hepatic oxidative damage.

Effect of Foliar Application of Selected Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill

Background: Soybean (Glycine max), a prized oilseed crop known for its nutritional richness, is the focus of a study aiming to boost production with minimal environmental impact. The research explores the application of plant growth regulators (PGRs), specifically Gibberellic Acid (GA3), Kinetin and Salicylic Acid, in field experiments during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 in Beed, India. Methods: The study applied Gibberellic Acid (GA3), Kinetin and Salicylic Acid at different concentrations in field experiments. A comprehensive analysis of growth and yield attributes, including plant height, primary branches, Leaf Area Index (LAI), root nodules and Crop Growth Rate (CGR), was conducted to assess the influence of PGR treatments on soybean growth. Yield attributes such as pod count, pod weight, seed count per pod and 100-seed weight were scrutinized to understand their effects on soybean productivity. Result: The study highlighted significant effects of PGR treatments on soybean growth and yield. Notably, Kinetin at 500 ppm promoted the tallest plants, while GA3 at 200 ppm resulted in the shortest. Kinetin at 100 ppm increased primary branches and Salicylic Acid at 50 ppm exhibited the highest LAI and abundant root nodules. Kinetin at 500 ppm and Salicylic Acid at 50 ppm showed higher CGR, indicating efficient crop growth. For yield, Kinetin at 500 ppm excelled in pod count and weight. GA3 at 100 ppm was identified as the most effective PGR for enhancing various growth parameters and soybean seed yield, suggesting the potential of PGRs in sustainable cultivation, reducing reliance on chemical inputs.

Dolomitic lime and silicate in no‐till: Nutritional status, soil fertility, and soybean agronomic performance

AbstractLimestone is the most widely used agricultural input for soil acidity correction and calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) fertilization. However, other materials have the potential to fulfill these purposes, such as steel slags, also known as silicates. Silicates have higher solubility than limestone, serving as agents for increase pH in no‐till, in addition to being a source of Ca, Mg, and silicon (Si). This study aimed to compare the effects of surface application of dolomitic lime and calcium magnesium silicate on soil chemical properties, soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] nutritional status, and grain yield under no‐till. The experiment was installed in the northwest Paraná State, Brazil, on a Rhodic Eutrustox. Lime and silicate rates were applied by broadcasting before the sowing of soybean. Silicate treatment increases soil Ca2+, pH, and base saturation up to a depth of 0.10 m. By contrast, liming effects on soil chemistry were restricted to the 0.05 m top layer after 24 months of application. The acidity correction and Ca2+ supply to greater soil depths and the increased leaf Si as a beneficial element provided by silicate treatment contributed to increasing soybean yield in the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons. Lime application, regardless of the rate, did not improve soybean yield. Waste from the steel industry can be used as acidity correctives and source of Si, Ca, and Mg, improving the agronomic performance of soybean.

First report of Colletotrichum karstii causing anthracnose on soybean in China.

Soybean (Glycine max) is a significant grain and oil crop. Among the various challenges faced by soybean cultivation, anthracnose stands out as one of the most prevalent diseases. In June 2023, anthracnose symptoms on leaves characterized by irregular disease spots featuring gray-white centers and brown edges, along with many small black dots on their surface, were observed in a 20-hectare soybean (variety "Liu Yuehuang") field located in Luodian County (25°40'20″ N, 106°53'50″ E, 575 m), Guizhou Province, China. Around 30% of the 300 soybean plants examined were symptomatic, and a total of ten leaves were collected. Fragments (5×5 mm) from the edge of disease spots were sheared and surface-sterilized with 3% sodium hypochlorite and 75% ethanol for 60 s and 30 s, respectively. They were then flushed twice with sterile water, dried using sterile filter papers, finally placed on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and incubated at 28°C for two days. In total, 11 isolates with identical morphological characteristics were obtained. The colonies grown with white aerial mycelia on their surface; conidia were cylindrical, both ends are rounded, aseptate, hyaline, 11.0-14.0 (12.5) × 4.5-6.0 (5.0) μm (n = 30); appressoria were nearly ovoid, brown to black, 8.5-10.5 (9.5) × 5.5-7.5 (6.0) μm (n = 30). The morphological characteristics closely resembled the description of C. karstii (Damm et al., 2012). To further identify the isolates, chitin synthase (CHS-1), actin (ACT), beta-tubulin (TUB2), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) loci were amplified by using CHS-79F/CHS-345R, ACT-512F/ACT-783R (Carbone and Kohn, 1999), Bt2F/Bt2R (Woudenberg et al., 2009), GDF/GDR (Guerber et al., 2003) and ITS1/ITS4 (White et al., 1990) PCR primers, respectively. The BLAST results showed that the sequences of two representative strains, LD 2023048-1 and LD 2023048-2, were highly similar to those of strain C. karstii CGMCC3.14194 (ITS: OR342620 (99%) and OR342621 (99%) with HM585409, ACT: OR412337 (97%) and OR423341 (100%) with HM581995, CHS-1: OR423344 (99%,) and OR423345 (100%) with HM582023, GAPDH: OR423348 (98%) and OR423349 (98%) with HM585391, and TUB: OR423352 (99%) and OR423353 (99%) with HM585428). The phylogenetic tree combined five sequences showed that the two strains clustered into a branch of C. karstii CGMCC3.14194 with high support values. Thirty-day-old soybean plants (n = 10) (variety Liu Yuehuang) were separately sprayed with 1 × 105 spore suspensions/mL of the two strains by spray method, and plants sprayed with sterile distilled water were used as the negative control (n = 5). All the plants were then covered with plastic bags and cultured in the greenhouse (28℃, 80% humidity, 12 h light dark cycle). After ten days of inoculation, plants inoculated with C. karstii began to produce typical anthracnose symptoms, while the control remained asymptomatic. The confirmation of the reisolated pathogen as C. karstii was established through a comprehensive analysis of morphology and five sequencing loci. Pathogenicity tests were repeated three times. Anthracnose on soybean is caused by Colletotrichum spp. reported in China including C. truncatum (Hu et al., 2015), C. brevisporum (Shi et al., 2021) and C. fructicola (Xu et al., 2023). As far as we know, this study is the initial report of C. karstii inducing anthracnose on soybean to date, which establishes a fundamental reference for preventing and controlling this disease.

Structural insights into catalytic promiscuity of chalcone synthase from Glycine max (L.) Merr.: Coenzyme A-induced alteration of product specificity

Catalytic promiscuity of enzymes plays a pivotal role in driving the evolution of plant specialized metabolism. Chalcone synthase (CHS) catalyzes the production of 2′,4,4′,6′-tetrahydroxychalcone (THC), a common precursor of plant flavonoids, from p-coumaroyl-coenzyme A (-CoA) and three malonyl-CoA molecules. CHS has promiscuous product specificity, producing a significant amount of p-coumaroyltriacetic lactone (CTAL) in vitro. However, mechanistic aspects of this CHS promiscuity remain to be clarified. Here, we show that the product specificity of soybean CHS (GmCHS1) is altered by CoA, a reaction product, which selectively inhibits THC production (IC50, 67 μM) and enhances CTAL production. We determined the structure of a ternary GmCHS1/CoA/naringenin complex, in which CoA is bound to the CoA-binding tunnel via interactions with Lys55, Arg58, and Lys268. Replacement of these residues by alanine resulted in an enhanced THC/CTAL production ratio, suggesting the role of these residues in the CoA-mediated alteration of product specificity. In the ternary complex, a mobile loop (“the K-loop”), which contains Lys268, was in a “closed conformation” placing over the CoA-binding tunnel, whereas in the apo and binary complex structures, the K-loop was in an “open conformation” and remote from the tunnel. We propose that the production of THC involves a transition of the K-loop conformation between the open and closed states, whereas synthesis of CTAL is independent of it. In the presence of CoA, an enzyme conformer with the closed K-loop conformation becomes increasingly dominant, hampering the transition of K-loop conformations to result in decreased THC production and increased CTAL production.

Elucidating the role of exogenous melatonin in mitigating alkaline stress in soybeans across different growth stages: a transcriptomic and metabolomic approach

BackgroundSoybean (Glycine max), a vital grain and oilseed crop, serves as a primary source of plant protein and oil. Soil salinization poses a significant threat to soybean planting, highlighting the urgency to improve soybean resilience and adaptability to saline stress. Melatonin, recently identified as a key plant growth regulator, plays crucial roles in plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stress. However, the potential of melatonin to mitigate alkali stress in soybeans and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.ResultsThis study investigated the effects of exogenous melatonin on the soybean cultivar Zhonghuang 13 under alkaline stress. We employed physiological, biochemical, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses throughout both vegetative and pod-filling growth stages. Our findings demonstrate that melatonin significantly counteracts the detrimental effects of alkaline stress on soybean plants, promoting plant growth, photosynthesis, and antioxidant capacity. Transcriptomic analysis during both growth stages under alkaline stress, with and without melatonin treatment, identified 2,834 and 549 differentially expressed genes, respectively. These genes may play a vital role in regulating plant adaptation to abiotic stress. Notably, analysis of phytohormone biosynthesis pathways revealed altered expression of key genes, particularly in the ARF (auxin response factor), AUX/IAA (auxin/indole-3-acetic acid), and GH3 (Gretchen Hagen 3) families, during the early stress response. Metabolomic analysis during the pod-filling stage identified highly expressed metabolites responding to melatonin application, such as uteolin-7-O-(2''-O-rhamnosyl)rutinoside and Hederagenin-3-O-glucuronide-28-O-glucosyl(1,2)glucoside, which helped alleviate the damage caused by alkali stress. Furthermore, we identified 183 differentially expressed transcription factors, potentially playing a critical role in regulating plant adaptation to abiotic stress. Among these, the gene SoyZH13_04G073701 is particularly noteworthy as it regulates the key differentially expressed metabolite, the terpene metabolite Hederagenin-3-O-glucuronide-28-O-glucosyl(1,2)glucoside. WGCNA analysis identified this gene (SoyZH13_04G073701) as a hub gene, positively regulating the crucial differentially expressed metabolite of terpenoids, Hederagenin-3-O-glucuronide-28-O-glucosyl(1,2)glucoside. Our findings provide novel insights into how exogenous melatonin alleviates alkali stress in soybeans at different reproductive stages.ConclusionsIntegrating transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches, our study elucidates the mechanisms by which exogenous melatonin ameliorates the inhibitory effects of alkaline stress on soybean growth and development. This occurs through modulation of biosynthesis pathways for key compounds, including terpenes, flavonoids, and phenolics. Our findings provide initial mechanistic insights into how melatonin mitigates alkaline stress in soybeans, offering a foundation for molecular breeding strategies to enhance salt-alkali tolerance in this crop.

Induction of secondary cell wall biosynthesis genes and their regulators by melatonin in Glycine max

Induction of secondary cell wall biosynthesis genes and their regulators by melatonin in Glycine max

PSEUDO-RESPONSE REGULATOR 3b and transcription factor ABF3 modulate abscisic acid-dependent drought stress response in soybean.

The circadian system plays a pivotal role in facilitating the ability of crop plants to respond and adapt to fluctuations in their immediate environment effectively. Despite the increasing comprehension of PSEUDO-RESPONSE REGULATORs (PRRs) and their involvement in the regulation of diverse biological processes, including circadian rhythms, photoperiodic control of flowering, and responses to abiotic stress, the transcriptional networks associated with these factors in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) remain incompletely characterized. In this study, we provide empirical evidence highlighting the significance of GmPRR3b as a crucial mediator in regulating the circadian clock, drought stress response, and abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway in soybeans. A comprehensive analysis of DNA affinity purification sequencing and transcriptome data identified 795 putative target genes directly regulated by GmPRR3b. Among them, a total of 570 exhibited a significant correlation with the response to drought, and eight genes were involved in both the biosynthesis and signaling pathways of ABA. Notably, GmPRR3b played a pivotal role in the negative regulation of the drought response in soybeans by suppressing the expression of abscisic acid responsive element-binding factor 3 (GmABF3). Additionally, the overexpression of GmABF3 exhibited an increased ability to tolerate drought conditions, and it also restored the hypersensitive phenotype of the GmPRR3b overexpressor. Consistently, studies on the manipulation of GmPRR3b gene expression and genome editing in plants revealed contrasting reactions to drought stress. The findings of our study collectively provide compelling evidence that emphasizes the significant contribution of the GmPRR3b-GmABF3 module in enhancing drought tolerance in soybean plants. Moreover, the transcriptional network of GmPRR3b provides valuable insights into the intricate interactions between this gene and the fundamental biological processes associated with plant adaptation to diverse environmental conditions.

Cluster frontline demonstration on soybean (Glycine max): Learning on sustainability indicators

Enhancing production sustainably in oilseeds has been a challenge for the technologists and policy planners. This study focuses on the efforts made through various technological interventions on farmers’ field under Cluster Frontline Demonstration (CFLD) in increasing production of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] crop. A total of 27,069 CFLDs on soybean crop were conducted (2018–22) across the country using improved crop varieties (47) and recommended practices (RP). This study aimed to compare the performance of enhanced soybean varieties over farmers' practices (FP). Most of these CFLDs were carried out using variety KDS-726. Four of these 47 varieties (KDS-726, JS 20-34, JS 20-69, and KDS-753) accounted for approximately 49.5% of the demonstrations. Under RP, the cultivars PS-1225 and PS-1235's showed highest and lowest yielding capacities, respectively. Under RP, the extent of difference in yield between the highest and lowest was 213.4%. All the soybean cultivars grown under RP could result in increasing the yield above FP ranging from 1.65 (PS-1225) to 136.8% (VL Soya-77). Under RP and FP, the cost of cultivation for the various soybean cultivars ranged from ₹30,665 to ₹27,074/ha, respectively. Sikkim Pahenlo Bhatmas-1 (₹79,850/ha) and JS 95-60 (₹58,756/ha) showed the highest net returns while MACS-1407 (₹18,250/ha) and PS-1024 (₹6,630/ha) recorded lowest net returns for RP and FP, respectively. Under RP, SYI (sustainable yield index) ranged from 0.61 (MAUS-158) to 0.99 (MAUS-612) while under FP, it ranged from 0.27 (RVS 2001-4) to 0.99 (JS 97-52). Varieties under RP consistently displayed greater SVI (sustainable value index) values than FP in terms of net returns. The key insight suggested that improved soybean varieties have been instrumental in increasing yield and bridging the yield gap.

Utilizing Machine Learning Framework to Evaluate the Effect of Climate Change on Maize and Soybean Yield

In recent years, climate change patterns and extreme weather events have adversely affected agricultural production and have raised concerns about its effect on crop yields. These changes can affect the crop yield in many ways including the changes in the length of the growing season, planting and harvest time windows, precipitation amount and frequency, and the growing degree days, etc. So, it is important to analyze the effect of climate change on yield variability for a better understanding of its effect on the crops. This study aims to analyze the historical monthly county-level data for the state of Ohio to quantify maize (Zea mays) and soybean (Glycine max) yield temporal variability and to study the impact of proposed climate change scenarios on the yield. Machine learning algorithms were used to model the effect of monthly temperature and precipitation levels on yield variability, and to study the effect of climate change scenarios on yield. In addition, yield prediction models were integrated with proposed climate change scenarios for higher and lower emissions scenarios to predict the maize and soybean yield for the year 2100. To model the effect of weather parameters on temporal yield variability, the Random Forest model outperformed with RMSE of 0.61 Mt/ha and R2 of 0.73 for maize and with RMSE of 0.21 Mt/ha, R2 of 0.64 for soybean crop. Maximum temperature for July which has a negative correlation with yield was found to be the most dominant parameter for maize yield followed by the precipitation in August, July, and June which have a positive correlation with maize yield. Precipitation in August was found to be the most dominant weather parameter for soybean yield followed by maximum temperature in July. Based on the projected average increase in Ohio’s temperature and precipitation levels alone, maize yield was predicted to drop by 13.2% or 18.5% respectively due to lower emissions and higher emissions climate change scenario of Ohio. Similarly, a 6.64% and a 9.63% drop is expected in the soybean yield by the year 2100 for both lower emissions and higher emissions climate change scenarios. In economic terms based on current commodity values, this is an astounding loss of 254.7 to 369.7 million USD for maize and 535.9 – 751.1 million USD for soybean crop to the state of Ohio.

Characterization and correlations of dominant microorganisms and volatile compounds in fermentation process of Yangjiang douchi.

Yangjiang douchi (YD) is a traditional fermented soybean product, which is popular in Chinese cuisine for its unique flavor. However, due to its high salt content and unstable flavor, its competitiveness in the international market is gradually weakening. Microorganisms have a key role in the production process of YD because it is a fermented food but the effect of microorganisms on the volatile compounds of YD is also not currently clear. In this paper, aroma compounds and microbial diversity in different fermentation stages of YD were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactometry (GC-MS/O) and IlluminaMiseq system sequencing. A total of 78 aroma-active compounds were detected throughout the fermentation process and they influenced the formation of flavor in YD. Fungi flora were relatively single in YD, and bacteria were rich and varied. A total of 418 species of bacteria were present during fermentation, with unclassified_Staphylococcus, Staphylococcus_kloosii, and Bacillus_velezensis_Bacillus predominating. There were 25 species of fungi at the species level, and Aspergillus minisclerotigenes (OTU 4) played a dominant role in the whole fermentation process. Staphylococcus and Bacillus in the bacterial genus were strongly correlated with most flavor compounds detected, and A. minisclerotigenes in the fungi were more relevant to flavor compounds. This research provides a theoretical basis for the enhancement of the flavor of traditional fermented douchi in China. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Physical properties and organic carbon in no-tilled agricultural systems in silty Pampas soils of Argentina

Context Under continuous long-term no-till farming, many silty soils develop platey and massive compacted structures in topsoil, ascribed to low crop diversification and intense agricultural traffic. Aims We hypothesise that agricultural scenarios of greater diversification and cropping intensity should increase carbon (C) inputs and total and particulate organic C, resulting in the disappearance of these platey and massive compacted structures and soil compaction. Methods The hypothesis was tested in 55 selected production fields (lots or macro-plots of trials with a cultivated area greater than 15 ha) and five non-cultivated sites across the Rolling Pampas of Argentina. The whole area was covered by fine, illitic, thermal, silty loams (Typic Argiudolls, US Soil Taxonomy; Typic Phaeozems, FAO Soil Map). Based on estimations of the crop intensity index (CII; proportion of days in the year with active crop growth) and recent agricultural history of crop sequences, sampled fields were grouped into five categories: soybean (Glycine max) monoculture (CII < 0.45; mean CII = 0.39); low intensity cropping sequence (CII = 0.45–0.60; mean CII = 0.50); high intensity cropping sequence (CII = 0.60–0.80; mean CII = 0.66); pastures for hay bale production (CII = 1.0); and quasi-pristine situations (areas with non-implanted and non-grazed grass vegetation or with negligible stocking rate, CII = 1.0). Key results Total C inputs to soil varied within ~1400–7800 kg C ha−1 year−1 and were significantly and positively related to crop intensity index (P < 0.0001, r = 0.83). The highest (P < 0.05) soil organic C levels were observed in the first 0.05 m of soil and quasi-pristine conditions (even higher than under pasture), and the lowest (P < 0.05) under soybean monoculture. In the 0.05–0.20 m soil layer, quasi-pristine conditions had significantly (P < 0.05) higher soil organic C levels; the other situations did not differ. Soil organic C and particulate organic C levels (0–0.05 m layer) were related to both CII and annual C input. Platey structures and clods >0.1 m (0–0.2 m layer) were negatively related to CII (r = −0.59 and −0.45, respectively; P < 0.0001) and C inputs from crops (r = −0.60 and −0.29, respectively; P < 0.01). Nevertheless, this did not result in soil compaction alleviation, as shown by soil bulk density, maximum penetration resistance and water infiltration variations. About 92% of the samples with soil bulk density above the threshold (1.35 Mg m−3), and about 32% of the total records, presented levels of maximum penetration resistance, aeration porosity and/or water infiltration beyond the values suggested as critical. Conclusions Although soil organic C in topsoil varied as hypothesised, the studied soil physical properties did not. This partially rejects our hypothesis. Implications This study underscores the intricate interplay between crop intensity, SOC enhancement, soil structure improvement and the persistent challenge of subsoil compaction.

Comparative transcriptome analysis between two different cadmium-accumulating genotypes of soybean (Glycine max) in response to cadmium stress

BackgroundCadmium (Cd) is extremely toxic and non-essential for plants. Different soybean varieties differ greatly in their Cd accumulation ability, but little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms.ResultsHere, we performed transcriptomic analysis using Illumina pair-end sequencing on root tissues from two soybean varieties (su8, high-Cd-accumulating (HAS) and su7, low Cd-accumulating (LAS)) grown with 0 or 50 μM CdSO4. A total of 18.76 million clean reads from the soybean root samples were obtained after quality assessment and data filtering. After Cd treatment, 739 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; 265 up and 474 down) were found in HAS; however, only 259 DEGs (88 up and 171 down) were found in LAS, and 64 genes were same between the two varieties. Pathway enrichment analysis suggested that after cadmium treatment, the DEGs between LAS and HAS were mainly enriched in glutathione metabolism and plant-pathogen interaction pathways. KEGG analysis showed that phenylalanine metabolism responding to cadmium stress in LAS, while ABC transporters responding to cadmium stress in HAS. Besides we found more differential expressed heavy metal transporters such as ABC transporters and zinc transporters in HAS than LAS, and there were more transcription factors differently expressed in HAS than LAS after cadmium treatment in two soybean varieties, eg. bHLH transcription factor, WRKY transcription factor and ZIP transcription factor.ConclusionsFindings from this study will shed new insights on the underlying molecular mechanisms behind the Cd accumulation in soybean.

Nitrogen fertilization and desiccation times of palisadegrass pasture driving C and N-cycling traits in an Oxisol under soybean in a crop-livestock system

The pasture management and desiccation times before sowing may affect the following grain crop in crop-livestock system. To explore the impacts of N fertilization applied to the palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha) pasture and the desiccation time before soybean (Glycine max L.) sowing on attributes related to C and N cycling and on soybean yield, we conducted an experiment with palisadegras pasture grazed for 18 months receiving 300 kg ha−1 of N (+N, urea) or without N fertilization (–N), desiccated at 1, 15, 30, 45, or 60 days before soybean sowing. Assessments at the soybean sowing and at R3 stage showed that desiccation times had only minor effects on soil attributes. However, pasture N fertilization (+N) significantly decreased the soil basal respiration (9.6 vs 8.4 μg g−1 day−1 of CO2-C) at soybean sowing; at R3, +N decreased soil organic C (20.8 vs. 19.7 g kg−1), total N (2.1 vs. 2.0 g kg−1), and urease activity (62.6 vs. 42.4 μg g−1 h−1 of NH4+-N). Conversely, +N increased labile C (164 vs. 346 mg kg−1) at R3, and nitrification rate at sowing (6.6 vs. 11.6%) and R3 (2.32 vs. 5.26%). Ammonification rate increased at sowing (0.02 vs. 0.03 μg g−1 day−1 of NH4+-N) due to N fertilization but decreased at R3 (0.06 vs. -0.08 μg g−1 day−1 of NH4+-N). Besides causing negative variations in most of the soil attributes related to C and N cycling, fertilization of palisadegrass pasture with 300 kg ha−1 of N decreased soybean yield (5040 vs. 4770 kg ha−1). Desiccation times of palisadegrass did not affect the soil attributes related to C and N cycling and soybean yield so that short desiccation times before soybean sowing can optimize the forage use in the livestock phase and allow the biomass recovery after grazing for soil mulching in the no-till system of the integrated grain crop.

Genome wide identification and expression profiling of ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters gene family in lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) under aluminium stress condition

Adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporters (ABC transporters) are involved in regulating plant growth, development and tolerance to environmental stresses. In this study, a total of 138 ABC transporter genes were identified in the lentil genome that were classified into eight subfamilies. Four lentil ABC transporters from subfamily B and I were clustered together with the previously characterized ABC transporter proteins related to aluminium (Al) detoxification. Lentil ABC transporter genes were distributed across the chromosomes. Tandem duplication was the main driving force for expansion of the ABC gene family. Collinearity of lentil with soybean indicated that ABC gene family is closely linked to Glycine max. ABC genes in the same subfamily showed similar gene structure and conserved motifs. The ABC promoter regions harboured a large number of plant hormones and multiple stress responsive cis-regulatory elements. The qRT-PCR showed that ABC genes had varied expression in roots of lentil at different time points under Al stress. This is the first report on genome wide identification and expression analyses of genes encoding ABC transporter genes in lentil which has provided in-depth insight for future research on evolution and elucidation of molecular mechanisms for aluminium tolerance.