POWR1 is a domestication gene pleiotropically regulating seed quality and yield in soybean

Area of Science:

• Plant genetics
• Crop science
• Molecular biology

Background:

• Seed protein, oil, and yield are key economic traits in soybean.
• The molecular basis and domestication selection for these correlated traits are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the molecular mechanism underlying a major quantitative trait locus (QTL) for seed protein and oil content.
• To investigate the role of POWR1 in soybean domestication and its impact on seed composition and yield.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis to map the gene.
• Genetic sequencing to identify the causative mutation.
• Gene expression analysis to understand regulatory roles.

Main Results:

• A CCT gene, POWR1, was identified as the causal gene for a large-effect protein/oil QTL.
• A transposable element (TE) insertion in POWR1 truncates its CCT domain, leading to increased seed oil, weight, and yield, but decreased protein content.
• POWR1 regulates genes involved in nutrient transport and lipid metabolism, exhibiting pleiotropic effects.

Conclusions:

• POWR1 is a domestication gene in soybean, with the TE insertion allele fixed in cultivated varieties due to selection for increased seed weight and yield.
• This selection has shaped soybean's characteristic high yield/oil and lower protein content.
• Understanding POWR1's function provides valuable insights for improving soybean seed quality and yield.