Mapping QTL for protein and oil content in soybean

The objective of this study was to detect and map quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) protein and oil contents. F-2 plants, derived from the cross between the CS3032PTA276 line and the variety UFVS2012, were grown in a greenhouse and provided the leaves for DNA extraction and analysis. Forty-eight polymorphic microsatelite markers (SSR) were evaluated in the F2 population. Evaluation of the phenotype was performed in 207 families from F-2:3 progenies, in a complete block design with three replicates, carried out in Vicosa, MG, Brazil, in 2006. Four QTL associated with protein content, in linkage groups D1a, G, A1, and I, and three QTL for oil content in groups A1, I and O were identified. Phenotypic variation for protein and oil explained by QTL ranged from 6.24 to 18.94% and 17.26 to 25.93%, respectively. New QTL associated with protein and oil contents were detected, besides those previously reported in other studies. Other regions may be involved in the genetic control of protein and oil contents in soybean besides those already known.