Incorporation of sequenced cDNA and genomic markers into the soybean genetic map

The soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr,] expressed sequence tagged (EST) databas e is growing rapidly and promises to be a valuable resource for discovering agronomically important genes. Genetic maps featuring cDNA clones of known sequence and function are import ant because association of genes with phe notypes will increase understanding of the molecular mechanisms affecting v aluable agronomic traits. Our objective is to place sequenced cDNA (EST) an d genomic clones on an anchored soybean genetic map. The genetic mapping of these markers was conducted by standard restriction fragment length polymo rphism (RFLP) techniques with an F-2 population of 149 individuals derived from a cross between two publicly available soybean genotypes cv, Noir I (P I 290136) and BARC-2 (Rj(4)) (PI 547895). DNA sequences of mapped EST and g enomic clones were compared with accessions in GenBank, and significance se quence similarities are reported. The ESTs were more Likely than the genomi c clones to have a significant similarity; to a GenBank accession,Because t he objective was to map ESTs and sequenced genomic clones, only the 24 link age groups (1200 cM) containing the 39 mapped EST and sequenced genomic clo ne markers plus the four phenotypic traits roof fluorescence (Fr-2), seed c oat color (I), flower color (W-1) and nodulation response (Rj(4)) were pres ented. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) and random amplified p olymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were added to increase marker density. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were included to align this map with of her soybean maps. The population has been further advanced to develop a F-8:9. recombinant inbred line population available to researchers interested in a ssociating the mapped cDNAs with quantitatively inherited traits.