Project Number: 3611-21000-023-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: May 09, 2008
End Date: May 08, 2013

Objective:
1. Strategically expand the USDA Soybean Germplasm Collection, conserve and distribute available genetic diversity in genus Glycine, and evaluate genetic resources in the collection. 2. Develop experimental lines derived from exotic germplasm with high yield and/or modified seed composition and map the loci associated with these traits. 3. Elucidate genetic mechanisms of resistance to sudden death syndrome, white mold, and soybean rust in diverse soybean germplasm.

Approach:
Identify genes associated with defense to various pathogens such as Fusarium solani, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and Phakopsora pachyrhizi by comparing genomic mRNA levels between resistant and susceptible lines. Candidate genes related to defense will be characterized by functional molecular studies and will be located on the physical map to determine if gene is from a region of the genome associated with any known QTLs for resistance to the specific disease. Analyze soybean interactions with Sclerotinia by analyzing effects of oxalic acid on soybean. Examine physiological conditions that might enhance soybean susceptibility to rust disease caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi. Strategically expand the USDA Soybean Germplasm Collection to better represent the diversity of the genus Glycine. Conserve, evaluate and distribute available genetic diversity in genus Glycine. Develop experimental lines derived from exotic germplasm with high yield, high protein concentration and/or high oil concentration. Map and confirm quantitative trait loci for yield, and protein and oil concentration with the positive allele coming from exotic germplasm.