Doubled haploid breeding methods in maize and soybean

Abstract

<p>The use of haploids in breeding programs has many benefits and has been a useful tool in plant breeding programs for decades. Since the initial discovery of haploids in the 1920’s, haploid technology has allowed for an increased rate of genetic gain in crops such as maize by allowing efficient integration of desirable agronomic, phenotypic, and genomic traits into elite germplasm quickly and efficiently. The objectives of this creative component were to review the use of doubled haploid (DH) breeding technology in established plant breeding programs such as maize (Zea mays L.) and the genes currently known to be involved in DH induction. The second objective was to discuss the requirements necessary to establish a viable DH breeding program in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr]. Due to the highly successful use of doubled haploid (DH) technology in maize DHs have been researched and developed for use in several crops with varying rates of success. Wheat has been among the more successful recent adoptions of commercial use of DHs. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and soybean have been met with limited results. However, there has been promising research conducted recently that may help make this technology more commercially viable for these crops.</p>