Cp4 epsps transgenesis enhanced soybean germination, yet no visual phenotypic differences from the control were detected

Soybean is renowned for its nutritional value and health benefits. Efficient control of undesirable plants is crucial for large-scale soybean production. Combining non-selective herbicides like glyphosate (Roundup®) with cp4 epsps transgene-resistant plants has proven effective. Substantial equivalence studies conducted by the Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (Cuba) have led to field approval. However, further investigation is needed regarding potential alterations in "minor" agricultural traits, botany, physiology, and biochemistry of this cp4 epsps-transgenic variety. This report outlines early germination stages in Petri dishes and plant growth under semi-controlled conditions. The cp4 epsps transgenesis enhanced seed vigour, achieving 100% germination at 42 h compared to 54 h for the control group. No visual phenotypic differences were observed at 21 or 60 days after sowing, nor statistically significant differences at 90 days in most biochemical indicators. However, significant differences were noted in the levels of chlorophyll b and soluble phenolics in leaves, and cell wall-linked phenolics in seeds. Despite minor variations observed, they are not significant enough to reject transgenesis as a valuable tool for soybean genetic improvement.