A Multi-trait Soybean Platform for Combined Production of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Astaxanthin, and Tocotrienols
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ABSTRACT: Soybeans are a vital source of plant-based nutrition, providing proteins, oils, and essential minerals. However, current aquaculture feeds often rely on marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids (EPA) and carotenoids like astaxanthin, which raise sustainability concerns. This study aims to develop genetically engineered soybeans capable of synthesizing EPA, astaxanthin, and tocotrienols to create plant-based alternatives for aquaculture feeds. Over three years of field trials, transgenic soybeans were engineered to accumulate 3.8% EPA of total seed oil, 13 µg/g of astaxanthin, and 1.3 mg/g of tocotrienol in seeds. The engineered soybeans also exhibited a distinctive pink coloration due to the accumulation of astaxanthin. To further enhance EPA content, a hybrid soybean was developed by crossing the pPTN1331 soybean with a high-α-linolenic acid (ALA) soybean. The resulting hybrid demonstrated a significant increase in EPA levels, reaching 14% of total seed oil. This research demonstrates the potential of metabolic engineering to enhance the nutritional and industrial value of soybeans. By incorporating key genes from diverse organisms, we successfully engineered soybeans to produce important bioactive compounds such as EPA, astaxanthin, and tocotrienols.
ORGANISM(S): Glycine max
PROVIDER: GSE313681 | GEO | 2026/05/15
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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