Analysis of seed zinc and other minerals in a recombinant inbred population of navy bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Mineral deficiencies in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) negatively affect plant growth and development. Genetic differences in seed mineral concentrations have been detected among landraces and genotypes for trace elements such as Zn and Fe, and major elements such as P and Ca, and these differences have been exploited for the genetic improvement of the crop. The objectives of this study were (i) to develop and evaluate a navy bean recombinant inbred population segregating for seed Zn, (ii) to measure other micronutrients in the seeds such as Fe and the major elements P and Ca, and (iii) to identify associations between microsatellite markers and seed mineral content. Transgressive segregants were observed for seed Zn and variation was also found for Fe, P, and Ca. Bean microsatellites associated with Zn, P, and Ca were identified, but there was no association with Fe. Our molecular data identified a locus associated with seed Zn accumulation in bean located on linkage group 9. Further studies would help to find the exact location of the gene. As more information becomes available, breeders will be able to combine techniques of molecular genetics with conventional breeding methods through marker-assisted selection to develop cultivars with higher seed Zn content.