CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis of SEED FATTY ACID REDUCER genes significantly increased seed oil content in soybean.

This article focuses on the functional characterization of soybean Seed Fatty Acid Reducer 4 (GmSFAR4) genes, members of the GDSL lipase family involved in lipid metabolism, and their role in regulating seed oil content (SOC). Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to generate double mutants of GmSFAR4a and GmSFAR4b, the study found that loss of these genes increased seed fatty acid content by approximately 8% in greenhouse conditions and 17% in the field, without negatively affecting seed development, size, or germination rate. The GmSFAR4 genes are highly expressed in seeds during maturation and desiccation, and their mutation slowed seed germination and seedling growth, correlating with reduced expression of fatty acid catabolism-related genes. These findings suggest that GmSFAR4 lipases contribute to seed oil turnover during maturation and germination, and their targeted manipulation offers a promising approach to enhance soybean oil yield while maintaining seed vigor.