The goal of this project is to increase the efficiency of nodulation by beneficial bacteria in soybeans. Preliminary studies in the PI's laboratory indicate that genes contributing in soybean defense against pathogenic organisms also contribute to beneficial associations with Rhizobacteria. Silencing the glycerol-3-phosphate-synthesizing genes promotes nodulation by incompatible Rhizobacteria. Likewise, silencing the defense related genes promote these associations. The ultimate goal is to develop soybean lines with improved nitrogen fixation and improved yields.
Unique Keywords:
#nitrogen fixation, #rnai strategies, #seed composition, #soybean nodulation