Work

Deciphering the molecular regulatory mechanisms of seed oil in soybean for higher-oil breeding

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: [L.] Merr.) is one of the most economically valuable crops globally and a predominant source of vegetable oil. Seed oil content, a core trait that shapes soybean seed quality, is governed by complex polygenic regulatory networks. Identifying key regulators and elucidating the molecular mechanisms of seed oil accumulation thus constitute core research priorities in soybean functional genomics. In recent years, advances in genomics and bioinformatics have substantially accelerated soybean functional genomics research, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the regulatory networks controlling seed oil content. Here, we summarize recent advances in the molecular regulation of seed oil accumulation, including basal lipid metabolic pathways, central transcription factor regulatory modules, phytohormone signaling, and epigenetic regulation. We also discuss breeding strategies for elevating seed oil content and developing high-oil soybean varieties. Overall, this review integrates the latest findings on soybean seed oil biosynthesis and offers theoretical references for subsequent mechanistic investigations and quality improvement.

Source: Frontiers in Plant Science

DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2026.1964663

Authors: Weitao Xu, Elshan Musazade, Ye Zhang, Moran Bu, Xianzhong Feng, Suxin Yang

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Sciences, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Lipid metabolism and biosynthesis

Subfield: Biochemistry

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801