Soybeans are an important crop worldwide as a source of protein and biodiesel for renewable energy. But is it performing to its full potential? An effort led by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute will sequence 400 soybean genomes to develop a “pangenome” — an attempt to characterize all the […] Read more
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Project to sequence 400 soybean genomes, improve future crops
Science Notes: Team plans to consult stakeholders in deciding priority lines to include
Genomics can help meet future challenges
It has accelerated genetic progress, and could help livestock industries in future Livestock producers are under increasing pressure to produce more protein with fewer resources, and face scrutiny from consumers over issues such as water and land use, climate change and antimicrobial resistance. To meet these challenges, genetic advancements, particularly the use of genomics, can […] Read more
Pollen genes mutate naturally in only some strains of corn
Science notes: Breeders have reported some lines are more genetically stable than others
Pollen genes mutate naturally in only some strains of corn, according to Rutgers-led research that may lead to better breeding of corn and other crops. Scientists at Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Montclair State University looked at gene mutations that arise spontaneously in corn plant pollen. Pollen grains are the male gametes, or reproductive cells, in […] Read more
Scientists peel back carrot’s genetic secrets
Reuters — Scientists have gotten to the root of the carrot, genetically speaking. Researchers said Monday they have sequenced the genome of the carrot, an increasingly important root crop worldwide, identifying genes responsible for traits including the vegetable’s abundance of vitamin A, an important nutrient for vision. The genome may point to ways to improve […] Read more
Genetic codebreaking on wheat years ahead of schedule
Sequencing the infamously complex genome for bread wheat — a game-changing task for wheat breeding that’s been estimated to take four or five more years — may now just take another couple of years, following a milestone announced Wednesday. The International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium (IWGSC), a team co-led by Canadian researchers, announced Wednesday it […] Read more
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