Deciphering grain legumes quality riddle: The genomics of bioactive compounds

Grain legumes are a vital source of inexpensive plant-based proteins and amino acids and, eaten as part of a healthy diet, they help to prevent chronic diseases. Potential health benefits of grain legumes have been mainly attributed to the presence of secondary metabolites with antioxidant activity. Breeding for improved end-user's quality is a complex task due to trait interaction. Some of these metabolites, such as phenolic compounds, that act as health-promoting agents are also considered antinutrients, influencing both taste and consumers' acceptability. Under the scope of LEGATO and BEGEQA projects, we studied the genetic architecture of the total phenolic compounds content in grass pea and common bean seeds. Association mapping approaches were applied to both common bean and grass pea germplasm collections and the genomic regions controlling these bioactive compounds concentration were identified. This work will contribute to the development of grain legume varieties with better nutritional quality, meeting consumers' expectations at the same time that support the improvement and production of a plant resource with a vital role in sustainable agriculture.