A single-nucleus transcriptome atlas of soybean anthers.

Area of Science:

• Plant Biology
• Genomics
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Anther development is critical for plant sexual reproduction.
• A detailed transcriptomic atlas of soybean anther development is currently lacking.
• Understanding anther development is key for improving crop yields and breeding strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct a high-resolution, cell-type-specific transcriptomic atlas of developing soybean anthers.
• To identify and characterize distinct cell types and their transcriptional dynamics during anther development.
• To uncover the genetic regulation underlying male fertility in soybean.

Main Methods:

• Single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) was employed to profile gene expression in developing soybean anthers.
• Nine distinct cell types were identified and characterized.
• CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and EMS mutagenesis were used for functional validation of key genes.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive transcriptional atlas of nine cell types in developing soybean anthers was generated.
• Transcriptional continuity and dynamic reprogramming were observed across developmental stages, especially during the transition from meiocytes to microspores.
• Divergent transcriptional programs were identified in generative and vegetative cells, with specific genes like OSD1A and PKSA found to be essential for pollen development and fertility.

Conclusions:

• This study provides fundamental insights into the transcriptional regulation of soybean anther development.
• The generated atlas serves as a valuable resource for manipulating male fertility and advancing hybrid breeding programs in soybean.
• Key genes regulating pollen development and fertility were functionally validated, offering targets for crop improvement.