Assessment of Antioxidant Potential and Photosynthesis-Related Chlorophyll Traits in Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill.) Core Collection for Enhanced Fodder Quality

This study evaluated 247 soybean genotypes to find those with high antioxidant activity and chlorophyll content key traits for better fodder quality. Antioxidant levels were measured using the DPPH assay, while chlorophyll content was assessed through spectrophotometry. Genetic diversity was studied using SSR markers and PCR analysis. Data analysis with ANOVA, heatmaps, and dendrograms revealed significant variation among genotypes. Two genotypes, GW 208_W and GW 218_W, stood out for their consistently high antioxidant and chlorophyll levels. A positive correlation between these traits was observed, and SSR marker analysis supported the genetic differences among genotypes. These results suggest GW 208_W and GW 218_W are strong candidates for breeding climate-resilient, nutritious soybean varieties. The integration of molecular and biochemical data offers a useful approach for improving lower-performing genotypes through marker-assisted selection.