Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
07:19
Quantifying Plant Soluble Protein and Digestible Carbohydrate Content, Using Corn (Zea mays) As an Exemplar
Published on: August 6, 2018
Soybean Protein Quality and Quantity: Genetic Control and Environmental Influences
Yijie Fang1, Hongxin Xie1, Yingxiang Wang1
1Guangdong Basic Research Center of Excellence for Precise Breeding of Future Crops, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for the Development Biology and Environmental Adaptation of Agricultural Organisms, South China Institute for Soybean Innovation Research, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
Plant, Cell & Environment
|May 25, 2026
Summary
Breeding soybeans for higher protein content requires understanding complex genetic and environmental factors. This review explores mechanisms for improving soybean protein quality and yield, especially in challenging climates.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Soybean is a vital global protein source, but lacks sulfur-containing amino acids.
- Increasing demand for plant-based proteins drives efforts to enhance soybean seed protein content and quality.
- Challenges include the negative correlation between protein and oil, and environmental impacts on seed composition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding the genetic, molecular, and physiological mechanisms of soybean protein accumulation.
- To explore the interplay between key genes, transcription factors, and environmental factors influencing soybean protein profiles.
- To provide a framework for breeding high-protein soybean varieties adapted to diverse agro-climatic conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing current research on soybean protein biosynthesis and regulation.
- Analysis of genetic, molecular, and physiological pathways involved in seed protein accumulation.
- Examination of genotype-by-environment interactions affecting soybean seed composition.
Main Results:
- Identified key biosynthetic pathways, transcription factors, and transporter genes governing protein accumulation.
- Highlighted the significant influence of environmental cues (photoperiod, temperature, water, nutrients) on protein profiles.
- Discussed the specific challenges and potential for high-protein soybean cultivation in low-latitude regions.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of genetic and environmental interactions is crucial for improving soybean protein content and quality.
- Breeding strategies must consider genotype-by-environment interactions for stable yields.
- Further research can guide the development of next-generation soybean varieties with enhanced nutritional value and consistent productivity.
Related Concept Videos
02:27Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
Although the genetic makeup of an organism plays a major role in determining the phenotype, there are also several environmental factors, such as temperature, oxygen availability, presence of mutagens, that can alter an organism’s phenotype.
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
01:59Plant Breeding and Biotechnology
Crop cultivation has a long history in human civilization, with records showing the cultivation of cereal plants beginning at around 8000 BC. This early plant breeding was developed primarily to provide a steady supply of food.
01:22Bioreactor Controls-III
Strain improvement is a foundational strategy in industrial microbiology aimed at maximizing microbial productivity, particularly because natural isolates typically yield commercially valuable products in very low concentrations. Although optimizing the culture medium and environmental conditions can improve yields, these adjustments are inherently limited by the organism’s genetic potential. As a result, the focus shifts toward genetic modifications to enhance biosynthetic capacity. The...
01:20Gene-Environment Interactions
Gene expression is a dynamic process that is significantly influenced by environmental factors. This interaction underlies the complex nature of biological development and the phenotypic differences observed among individuals, even among those with identical genetic makeups. Factors such as radiation, temperature, behavior, nutrition, and stress play pivotal roles in determining how genes are expressed. The concept of the reaction range is central to understanding this interaction. It posits...
01:28Proteins: Dietary Sources and Requirements
Consuming animal-based products offers high-quality proteins that contain optimal levels and combinations of essential amino acids, crucial for tissue repair and growth. Foods like eggs, milk, fish, and most meats are a source of complete proteins. Legumes and cereals are abundant in proteins; however, they typically lack a full range of essential amino acids. As a result, they are considered incomplete protein sources. Some plant sources like soybeans, quinoa, and amaranth do contain complete...
02:35Key Elements for Plant Nutrition
Like all living organisms, plants require organic and inorganic nutrients to survive, reproduce, grow and maintain homeostasis. To identify nutrients that are essential for plant functioning, researchers have leveraged a technique called hydroponics. In hydroponic culture systems, plants are grown—without soil—in water-based solutions containing nutrients. At least 17 nutrients have been identified as essential elements required by plants. Plants acquire these elements from the atmosphere, the...