Date of Graduation
5-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Horticulture (MS)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Horticulture
Advisor/Mentor
Ainong Shi
Committee Member
Margaret L. Worthington
Second Committee Member
Qingyang Zhang
Third Committee Member
Xiaolun Sun
Keywords
Cowpea; Nutritional quality; Food security; Genomic breeding
Abstract
Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp) is a crucial crop in many regions, serving as a vital protein source for humans and livestock. Addressing the need to enhance its nutritional quality and make it easier to cultivate cowpeas of specific colors, this study utilized genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify markers associated with protein content and seed coat color patterns in cowpea. In the protein content study, a GWAS was conducted on 161 cowpea accessions using 110,155 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Seven significant SNP markers were identified, all located at a locus on chromosome 8 associated with the gene Vigun08g039200, enhancing our understanding of the genetic basis for protein content variation in cowpea. Additionally, genomic prediction models were employed, yielding accuracies ranging from 42.9% to 52.1%, offering potential for early prediction of individual performance in breeding programs aimed at improving seed protein content and nutritional quality. The second study focused on seed coat color and patterns, important traits for consumer preferences in cowpea. A GWAS was conducted on 315 cowpea lines, revealing associations between specific SNP markers and seed coat color on chromosome 5. Genes such as Vigun05g039700, Vigun05g039800, and Vigun05g041100 were identified as potential candidates linked to black seed coat. These findings underscore the utility of associated SNP markers in selecting desired seed colors and patterns through genomic breeding approaches in cowpea breeding programs. These findings provide valuable insights into the genetic architecture underlying protein content and seed coat color traits in cowpea, facilitating the selection of desirable traits in breeding programs through genomic approaches. Such advancements hold promise for enhancing both the nutritional quality and aesthetic appeal of cowpea, thereby contributing to food security and consumer preferences.
Citation
Chen, Y. (2024). Genome-Wide Association Study/ Genomic Prediction of Cowpea Seed Protein and Black Seed Coat Color in Cowpea. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/5320