Molecular genotyping of E1-E4 genes and assessment of their predictive significance for breeding early-maturing soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr) varieties
Abstract
Background. Development of early-maturing soybean varieties adapted to the short growing season of northern regions is a priority task of modern breeding. The photoperiod sensitivity genes E1-E4 play a key role in controlling flowering and maturation time.
Purpose. The aim of this study was to perform molecular genotyping of a soybean collection for the E1-E4 genes to establish a connection between their allelic states and field maturity characteristics, as well as to assess the predictive value of these markers for breeding.
Materials and methods. A collection of 46 soybean varieties was genotyped using allele-specific PCR and CAPS markers. Statistical analysis included calculation of genotype frequencies, Point biserial correlation (r = -0,873, p = 0,053), Spearman's correlation (ρ = -0,873, p = 0,0001), linear regression, and the Random Forest method with a 70/30 validation.
Results. A dose effect of recessive alleles was established: each additional recessive allele reduced the maturity group by an average of 0,8 points (linear trend, R² = 0,73). When 3 recessive alleles were present, the proportion of late-maturing varieties was 0%. The Random Forest model showed a prediction accuracy of >85%. The e3-tr allele (variety Sibiriada) contributed the most to early maturity. Molecular markers of the E1-E4 genes have high predictive significance for breeding for early maturity. A selection criterion of ≥3 recessive alleles ensures 100% efficiency in obtaining early-maturing forms.
For breeding practice, the donor varieties Sibiriada (carrier of e3-tr) and Topaz (ultra-early phenotype) are recommended.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Pavel D. Timkin, Polina M. Linskaya, Angelina S. Zazhigalkina, Anna P. Galichenko, Andrey A. Penzin
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