Molecular Plant Breeding 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 35-43 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/mpb 37 3 Application of MAS in Soybean Trait Improvement 3.1 Enhancing biotic stress resistance Marker-assisted selection (MAS) has been effectively utilized to enhance disease resistance in various crops, including soybeans. One notable application is the development of resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN), a significant pest affecting soybean yields. MAS enables the identification and incorporation of resistance genes into elite cultivars, thereby accelerating the breeding process and improving resistance durability. The use of molecular markers linked to SCN resistance genes allows for precise selection and pyramiding of multiple resistance genes, which can provide broad-spectrum and long-lasting resistance (Miklas et al., 2006; Devi et al., 2017; Dormatey et al., 2020). Insect resistance in soybeans has also benefited from MAS. By identifying and utilizing markers linked to insect resistance genes, breeders can develop soybean varieties that are less susceptible to pests such as the soybean aphid and the bean pod weevil. This approach not only enhances the plant's inherent resistance but also reduces the reliance on chemical pesticides, promoting a more sustainable agricultural practice. The integration of insect resistance genes through MAS has shown promising results in other crops, suggesting similar potential for soybeans (Miklas et al., 2006; Dormatey et al., 2020). 3.2 Enhancing abiotic stress tolerance Drought tolerance is a critical trait for maintaining soybean productivity under water-limited conditions. MAS has been employed to identify and incorporate quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with drought tolerance into soybean breeding programs. For instance, the use of marker-assisted backcrossing (MABC) has been successful in improving drought tolerance in maize, which can serve as a model for similar efforts in soybeans. By selecting for favorable alleles at key loci, breeders can develop soybean varieties that maintain higher yields under drought stress (Ribaut and Ragot, 2006; Das et al., 2017). Flooding and salinity are other abiotic stresses that significantly impact soybean production. MAS facilitates the identification of QTLs and genes associated with tolerance to these stresses, enabling the development of resilient soybean varieties. For example, the successful pyramiding of genes for submergence and salinity tolerance in rice through MAS demonstrates the potential for similar strategies in soybeans. This approach can lead to the development of soybean cultivars that can thrive in adverse environmental conditions, thereby ensuring stable yields (Ludwików et al., 2015; Das et al., 2017; Eltaher et al., 2023). 3.3 Quality and yield traits Improving the oil and protein content of soybeans is a major breeding objective, given their economic importance. MAS has been instrumental in identifying markers linked to high oil and protein content, allowing for the selection of superior genotypes. The integration of these markers into breeding programs accelerates the development of high-quality soybean varieties. Advances in genotyping technologies have further enhanced the precision and efficiency of MAS in improving these complex traits (Francia et al., 2005). Seed size and pod number are key yield components in soybeans. MAS enables the identification of QTLs associated with these traits, facilitating their incorporation into elite breeding lines. By selecting for favorable alleles, breeders can develop soybean varieties with improved yield potential. The success of MAS in enhancing yield traits in other crops, such as maize and rice, underscores its potential for similar applications in soybeans. This approach not only improves yield but also contributes to the overall efficiency and sustainability of soybean production (Francia et al., 2005; Ribaut and Ragot, 2006; Ludwików et al., 2015). 4 Advances in MAS Technology in Soybean Breeding 4.1 Integration of MAS with genomic selection The integration of marker-assisted selection (MAS) with genomic selection (GS) has significantly enhanced the efficiency of soybean breeding programs. Genomic selection leverages high-throughput genotyping and advanced statistical models to predict the genetic value of breeding candidates, thereby accelerating the selection process. The combination of MAS and GS allows for the simultaneous selection of multiple traits, improving the overall
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