Genome-wide association study of soybean cultivars identifies genes and loci linked with seed pigmentation

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is the most important legume among all domesticated legume crops in the world and is an essential crop in that it is a source of vegetable oil and protein. Because soybeans are rich in protein and oil, they have been used as feed for livestock. In addition, soybeans have many phytochemicals and it is widely accepted that the consumption of soybean is effective in preventing cardiovascular disease and preventing cancer. Among phytochemicals, anthocyanins are the key components abundant in the seed of dark colored soybean and are effective antioxidants attracting attention to the beauty industry and medicines. In addition, a recent study suggested that the color of the seed coat is related to the storability of seeds.