Soybeans
Articles tagged with Soybeans
A bacterium from bumblebees can produce vitamin B2 in soya drinks
Researchers at DTU have developed a new method to identify bacteria capable of producing vitamin B2 in soya drinks. A bacterium from bumblebee guts was found to thrive in plant-based dairy alternatives and produce the nutrient in high quantities.
How plants stop growing to survive stress
Researchers identified a mechanism allowing plants to rapidly slow growth in response to extreme stress. By limiting growth-related compounds, plants pause development and cope with stress. The finding has practical applications for developing more resilient crops.
Selenium nanoparticles and glutathione synergistically enhance soybean salt tolerance by activating the JA pathway and arbutin-mediated rhizosphere microbiota
Researchers developed a nano-biostimulant (SeG) combining selenium nanoparticles and glutathione to alleviate salt stress effects on soybean growth. SeG triggers metabolic reprogramming via the JA pathway, promoting arbutin secretion and rhizosphere microbiota growth, leading to improved salt tolerance in soybean.
Why does the body deem some foods safe and others unsafe?
Researchers have identified three new proteins, called epitopes, that help the body determine 'safe' foods, aiding in food tolerance and allergy understanding. The epitopes were found in seed proteins from corn, wheat, and soybean, and interact with regulatory T cells to inform tolerance-or-rejection decisions.
Soybeans recruit beneficial soil microbes to defend against major pest
Researchers discover that resistant soybean varieties actively recruit beneficial soil microorganisms to suppress the devastating soybean cyst nematode. These microbes can be transferred to soil to help defend susceptible soybeans, providing a promising new approach for sustainable crop protection.
Comprehensive genetic library for soybean cyst nematode could renew resistance, profitability for soybean growers
A multi-institution research team has developed a comprehensive genetic library for the soybean cyst nematode, which could help renew resistance and profitability for soybean growers. The pangenome allows for population genetic analysis to understand how nematodes are overcoming resistance.
Plant hormone therapy could improve global food security
Researchers at Colorado State University have found a way to boost plant growth while maintaining its immune system through hormone treatment, showing promise for increasing food production. The approach involves genetically manipulating phytohormone interactions to restore cell division and increase disease resistance.
Bigger is not always better: Smaller leaves optimize light use in soybeans
Researchers found that narrower soybean leaves can improve how efficiently plants use available light. By altering leaf shape through a single gene, they reduced total leaf area by 13% without affecting yield, resulting in more efficient sunlight conversion into seed.
Scientists find potential for better soybean harvests by mining genomes for cyst nematode resistance
Researchers have identified novel sources of soybean resistance to cyst nematode that could help protect global soybean production. The study reveals a wealth of previously untapped genetic resistance to SCN by mining deep into soybean genomes.
GmWOX1 regulates the mediolateral polarity of compound leaves in soybean
The study identifies GmWOX1a and GmWOX1b as key regulators of mediolateral polarity in compound leaves. Multiple knockout mutants show altered leaf shape and reduced area, highlighting the functional redundancy among WOX1 genes.
UAlbany researcher wins grant to study impact of PFAs ‘forever chemicals’ on edible crops, food quality
A UAlbany researcher will study how PFAS 'forever chemicals' accumulate in plants, affecting their nutritional quality and safety. The study aims to understand the dynamics of PFAS in soil-plant systems and develop regulatory standards to protect public health.
Chinese scientists reveal how isoflavone 6-hydroxylase mediates soybean resistance to Phytophthora sojae
Researchers discovered the biosynthetic pathway of glycitein, a key soybean isoflavonoid, and its role in plant immunity. They found that GmIF6H1 enzyme catalyzes the production of glycitein, which acts synergistically with glyceollins to defend soybeans against infection by Phytophthora sojae.
Soybean Innovation Lab project to expand soybean markets in Africa with new grant
The Soybean Innovation Lab is expanding its efforts to build a thriving soybean market in Africa, with a new $1.5 million grant from the Gates Foundation. The lab aims to register at least 10 new soybean varieties in regional catalogs by 2027, including those with resistance to soybean rust.
Study links America’s favorite cooking oil to obesity
A study conducted at the University of California, Riverside, has uncovered a link between soybean oil consumption and obesity in mice. The research found that a genetically engineered group of mice on a high-fat diet rich in soybean oil did not gain weight, suggesting that the liver protein HNF4α plays a crucial role in fat metabolism.
Mizzou researchers enhancing soybean taste to win over more consumers
Researchers at Mizzou have developed a specially bred soybean variety called Super that yields the best results in terms of flavor and aroma, making it more appealing to Western consumers. The study found that smart plant breeding can make soy-based foods taste better, which could help more people accept and enjoy them.
Researchers identify key survival strategy for soybeans during heat and drought
Researchers at the University of Missouri discovered that soybeans employ differential transpiration as a natural defense strategy to cool reproductive tissues under extreme weather conditions. This adaptation allows plants to save significant amounts of water while protecting their flowers and seed pods.
Biologicals vs. biostimulants: Illinois study clarifies crop input confusion
A University of Illinois study investigates biologicals and biostimulants, live microbial inoculants and non-living chemicals applied to soil, seeds, and plants to improve growth. The researchers call for clarifying the terminology to properly regulate these products.
New land grant research detects dicamba damage from the sky
A team of researchers has developed a drone-based system to detect dicamba damage in soybean canopies, allowing for early detection and reporting of crop damage at the field scale. The system uses remote sensing technology to identify subtle canopy damage caused by dicamba vapor drift.
$1M gift to keep Soybean Innovation Lab operational after USAID closure
The Soybean Innovation Lab has secured a $1.02 million gift from an anonymous donor, led by Founders Pledge, to keep the lab operational until April 15. The reprieve will allow the lab to complete critical work and give Director Pete Goldsmith time to seek stable funding.
New risk maps help soybean farmers spot charcoal rot before it strikes
Researchers developed high-resolution risk maps to predict where charcoal rot occurs in soybean fields. The maps use measurable soil characteristics to assess risk across the landscape and identify hotspots for targeted approaches to managing the disease.
Precision agriculture advances: novel spectral model improves soybean detection
A novel Spectral Gaussian Mixture Model enhances classification accuracy by leveraging physiological traits and adapts to environmental variations. The model was tested across four regions, achieving an average accuracy of 87.5% to 90.7%, and has the potential to transform precision agriculture by providing real-time monitoring.
Disrupting ‘communication’ with plants could limit soybean cyst nematode infections
A study co-authored by an Iowa State University professor identified a single protein that triggers chemical signals called effectors in cyst nematodes, which hijack plant cells. Disrupting this protein could severely reduce nematode infections, making it a powerful method for reducing crop damage.
Research expands options for more sustainable soybean production
Scientists have discovered a new bacterial strain, Bacillus thuringiensis RZ2MS9, that can enhance the growth of soybeans and corn when combined with rhizobia. This partnership reduces fertilizer use, saving Brazilian growers an estimated USD 15 billion annually.
Miso made in space tastes nuttier, researchers find
Scientists successfully fermented miso on the International Space Station, discovering differences in bacterial communities and flavor profiles compared to Earth-made miso. The study's findings suggest that food fermentation can thrive in space, opening up new possibilities for astronaut well-being and performance.
Traditional breeding falls short in boosting soybean photosynthesis
A team from the University of Illinois found that traditional breeding methods are unlikely to improve soybean light-harvesting efficiency. Gene editing is likely needed to unlock soybean potential. The researchers gathered detailed measurements throughout an entire growing season to understand photoprotection relaxation in soybeans.
Topple weeds with a PRE-POST combo
Researchers found that a combination of preemergence and postemergence herbicide treatments provided the greatest and most consistent weed control in early planted soybean. The study's results suggest that using both PRE and POST treatments can optimize weed control outcomes and yield in early planted soybeans.
New discovery paves the way for more resistant soybeans to combat $1.5 billion crop loss from nematode infection
Researchers have identified a key protein responsible for nematode infection in soybeans, paving the way for the development of more resistant crops. By engineering 'decoy' proteins that trick nematodes into cleaving themselves, scientists aim to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and lower agriculture's environmental impact.
Rooting for resistance: How soybeans tackle nematode invaders is no secret anymore
Researchers have uncovered how soybean varieties respond to different types of nematode infections, revealing new insights into plant defense mechanisms. The study found that resistant plants activate genes involved in immune responses, while susceptible plants fail to do so, making them vulnerable to attack.
Scientists predict what will be top of the crops in UK by 2080 due to climate change
Climate change may lead to increased production of legumes such as chickpeas and soybeans, while oranges and okra become more widely grown. This could support shifts towards a more balanced diet and lower carbon footprint, but also poses economic and environmental risks.
Study shows seed impact mills clobber waterhemp seed viability
A recent study published in Weed Science shows that seed impact mills can reduce the number of germinable seeds by 87% compared to no-impact mill treatment. The technology damages weed seeds, making them non-viable and reducing seedbank density, which is critical for future herbicide-resistance management.
New study shows that corn-soybean crop rotation benefits are extremely sensitive to climate
A new study by researchers at the University of Minnesota found that the benefits of corn-soybean crop rotation are extremely sensitive to climate change. The study suggests that increasing crop rotation can improve overall yields and highlight its potential as a climate adaptation strategy in the US Midwest.
Chickpea and pea tempeh under development as new plant-based protein foods
A team of food scientists is developing tempeh products from chickpeas and peas to offset the health risks of a Western diet. The new fermented foods may help with obesity, fatty liver, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Preliminary research suggests they are high in fiber and low in fat.
Harnessing nature to defend soybean roots
Scientists develop novel approach using Cry14 protein to combat soybean cyst nematode (SCN), a major soybean pest. The research demonstrates that Cry14 reduces SCN population in soybean roots, leading to higher yields and potential resistance against native traits.
Annual report details more economic struggles for Tennessee’s ag sectors
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture's annual report highlights the challenges faced by Tennessee's farmers and foresters in 2024, including drought, agricultural land loss, and decreasing foreign market demand. The outlook for 2025 is clouded due to trade policy uncertainty, low crop prices, and high input costs.
Yeast as food emulsifier? Easily released protein as strong as casein
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered yeast cell wall-derived proteins that exhibit high emulsifying activity, comparable to commercial casein emulsifier. These easily released protein molecules could potentially replace emulsifiers derived from milk, eggs, and soybeans, reducing allergenic concerns.
Should postmenopausal women eat soy? University of Toronto researchers dispel myth about soy and cancer
A study of 40 randomized controlled trials found that estrogen-like compounds in soy had no effect on key markers of estrogen-related cancers. The findings support the idea that soy isoflavones behave differently from human estrogen, particularly when it comes to cancers that depend on estrogen to develop.
Superior photosynthesis abilities of some plants could hold key to climate-resilient crops
Researchers found that a regulatory level change enabled C4 plants to photosynthesize more efficiently. By studying this shift, they believe it could be applied to make C3 crops like rice and wheat more resilient to climate change.
Growing soybeans has a surprisingly significant emissions footprint, but it’s ripe for reduction
A new study by Iowa State University researchers finds that nearly half of soybean-related emissions come from the natural processes in soil, which can be mitigated through strategies like planting winter cover crops and adjusting planting schedules. These solutions have been found to reduce emissions by one-third while increasing yields.
Advancements in genomic research reveal alternative transcription initiation sites in thousands of soybean genes
Researchers have identified alternative transcription initiation sites for over 40,000 soybean genes, revealing widespread variations outside the traditional TATA box region. This discovery challenges current assumptions about gene expression and has significant implications for plant breeding and genetics research.
Protein in soy may reduce the risk of heart failure by affecting gut bacteria
A diet rich in soybean protein β-conglycinin has been shown to increase short-chain fatty acid production, which plays a role in protecting the heart. Analysis of gut bacteria identified an increase in specific SCFA-producing bacteria, further supporting the potential benefits of soy on heart health.
Soil volatile organic compound profiles as indicators for soil evaluation in soybean fields
This study analyzed soil VOC levels and their correlation with soil physical properties, ionome, microbiome, metabolome, and rhizosphere chemicals. The results reveal that soil VOC profiles can be reliable indicators for evaluating soil health in agricultural environments.
Making soybeans smarter
Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.
The environmental impacts of genetically modified crops
New research on genetically modified crops reveals potential environmental impacts, including increased pesticide use, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. The study highlights the need for further research to support sustainable agriculture practices.
Nitrogen fertilizer for soybeans offers limited yield benefits, study says
Researchers found that nitrogen applications had a limited impact on soybean yields, with no consistent benefit from single applications. However, a single application at planting showed increased yields in certain conditions, particularly in soils with low organic matter.
Biologist pioneers increased protein in staple crops, helps alleviate global protein shortage
Ling Li's groundbreaking research improves global nutrition and sustainability by increasing protein content in rice and soybean crops. The gene-edited approach boosts nutritional value while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Deforestation in the Amazon is driven more by domestic demand than by the export market
A study by University of São Paulo shows that expansion of cattle ranching to meet growing domestic demand has contributed more than any other driver to Amazon's original vegetation degradation. Domestic markets exert far greater pressure on deforestation, according to the study.
UTA harvests first climate-smart soybean crop
Researchers harvested climate-smart soybeans in a $5 million USDA project aiming to reduce GHG emissions while increasing crop production. The crop was grown using five climate-smart practices, including earlier planting and soil conservation.
Breaking boundaries: PAM-less genome editing in soybean
A new PAM-less genome editing system using CRISPR-SpRY has been developed to overcome limitations in traditional genome editing for soybean breeding. The SpRY protein-based system successfully targets key agronomic genes, achieving precise mutations and enhancing editing accuracy.
Can fungi turn food waste into the next culinary sensation?
A researcher at UC Berkeley has discovered that fungi can transform indigestible plant material into digestible, nutritious food in about 36 hours. The Neurospora fungus is being used to create tasty morsels from food waste, including grain covered with orange Neurospora and moldy bread.
Pennington Biomedical study to explore effects of soy on blood sugar levels
Researchers at Pennington Biomedical are conducting a 12-week study to examine the impact of soy on blood sugar, mood, and energy levels. Participants will receive meals with or without activated soy flour and undergo various tests, including insulin sensitivity and bone density assessments.
Killing giant ragweed just got harder for some Wisconsin farmers
Research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign reveals that some giant ragweed populations in Wisconsin have evolved resistance to critical post-emergence herbicides. This development limits chemical options for non-GMO soybean growers, potentially forcing them to switch to GMO soybean...
Purdue researchers receive additional $95K to develop arthritis treatments, drought-resistant soybeans
Researchers at Purdue University have received an additional $95,000 from the Trask Innovation Fund to further de-risk their technology for patent-pending drought-resistant soybean plants. Herman Sintim's team aims to develop novel compounds that potentially inhibit TAK1, a protein kinase shown to play key roles in arthritis.
How media impacts digital technology adoption in U.S. and Brazilian agriculture
A study found that farmers in both countries rely on interpersonal meetings, social media, and mass media for technology adoption, with social media playing a more significant role in Brazil. The researchers suggest that understanding the complex process of technology adoption can help tech companies reach potential customers.
Clemson professor leads $6 million study that aims to develop sustainable ways to increase soybean yields in heat and drought
A research team led by Clemson University Professor Shahid Mukhtar aims to identify natural biological solutions through the microbiome to help soybeans survive extreme heat and drought. The study will focus on the cellular level, soil microbiomes, and plant responses to environmental stresses.
Synchrotron-based imaging techniques enhance understanding of soybean nodule structures for improved nitrogen fixation efficiency
Researchers used synchrotron-based imaging to visualize and assess the functional structures in soybean root nodules, enhancing our understanding of nitrogen fixation efficiency. The study revealed the importance of central infected zones and vascular bundles in nodule function.
Soybean seed hardness demystified: key genes and networks uncovered
Researchers identify the GmSWEET2 gene as a significant regulator of seed hardness, enabling the development of customized varieties with tailored textures. The study highlights the importance of understanding genetic regulation during specific developmental stages to manipulate seed hardness effectively.
A research team develops SCAG algorithm for accurate branch detection and angle calculation in soybeans using LiDAR data
A new SCAG algorithm achieves high accuracy in branch detection and angle calculation, identifying novel traits for evaluating soybean density tolerance. The open-source algorithm has potential to enhance crop development and agricultural productivity.
Research optimizes biological control of pest that severely damages soybean crops
Researchers optimized the release pattern of Telenomus podisi, a parasitoid wasp that neutralizes the Brown stink bug, for effective biological control in soybean crops. By analyzing the dispersal range and releasing points, they found that intervals of 30 m can assure sufficient control of stink bugs.
Key nutrients help plants beat the heat
Researchers at Salk Institute found that higher temperatures drain plants of important dietary nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, affecting their long-term sustainability. The study's findings will inform the engineering of climate-resilient crops to address global warming's impact on food production.