Shoot-branching number control: insight for soybean architecture breeding
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 9, 2026

Breeding by Design for Functional Rice with Genome Editing Technologies
Published on: January 3, 2025
Meng Li1,2, Xiao Chen2, Yawar Habib3
1Sanjiang Lab, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.
Abstract:
Shoot branching in plants (including tillering in graminaceous crops) is a key agronomic trait affecting plant architecture, resource allocation, and final yield. Branching is a complex developmental process modulated by genetic networks regulating axillary meristem (AM) initiation and subsequent bud activation. This review summarizes the genetic regulatory networks identified in model plants, specifically Arabidopsis thaliana (a dicot) and Oryza sativa (a monocot). Building on this cross-species theoretical framework, we focus on soybean (Glycine max), a major economic crop, and provide a comprehensive analysis of recent progress in the functional characterization of branch number specific regulators and quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Given the bottlenecks in soybean architecture improvement resulting from its complex and highly redundant genome, recalcitrance to genetic transformation, and high environmental sensitivity, we discuss potential strategies based on multidisciplinary approaches and emerging technologies. This review aims to provide a new insight for shaping the ideal plant architecture in soybean through molecular design breeding.
Related Concept Videos
Plant Breeding and Biotechnology
Trihybrid Crosses
Some of Mendel’s crosses examined three pairs of contrasting characteristics. Such a cross is called a trihybrid cross. A trihybrid cross is a combination of three individual monohybrid crosses. For example, plant height (tall vs. short), seed shape (round vs. wrinkled), and seed color (yellow vs. green).
The F1 generation plants of a trihybrid cross are heterozygous for all three traits and produce eight gametes. Upon self-fertilization, these gametes have an equal chance to...
Light Acquisition
Primary and Secondary Growth in Roots and Shoots
Monohybrid Crosses
Dihybrid Crosses

