Nondestructive Seed Sampling for Precision Breeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current plant breeding methods are inefficient due to reliance on statistical sampling, which can miss seeds with desirable traits and include seeds without them, leading to labor-intensive and resource-heavy processes for germplasm improvement.
Innovation Solution
High-throughput, non-destructive seed sampling methods that analyze individual seeds for genetic and chemical traits, allowing for precise selection and preservation of seeds with desired characteristics, enabling more efficient germplasm improvement and breeding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If statistical sampling is used to test seeds, then the breeding process can be completed, but some seeds with desirable traits are excluded and seeds without desirable traits remain in the population
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the seed population into individual seed units for separate analysis. Each seed is sampled and tested individually rather than using bulk statistical sampling, allowing precise identification of which specific seeds possess desirable traits and which do not, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and selection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary sampling and testing system that bridges the gap between seed population and final selection. The sampling apparatus extracts material from individual seeds, and the testing system analyzes each seed's traits, providing accurate information that enables reliable selection decisions without missing desirable seeds or including unwanted ones
2Measurement precision
If individual seed analysis is performed, then selection accuracy improves, but labor and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements self-service through automated sampling and testing systems that operate without extensive manual intervention. The sampling apparatus automatically extracts seed material, and the testing system autonomously analyzes traits, reducing labor requirements while maintaining individual seed analysis accuracy, thus improving productivity without sacrificing measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of the analysis system by using sensitive detection methods that require minimal sample material. This allows individual seed analysis to be performed quickly and efficiently, reducing the time and resources needed per seed while maintaining high measurement precision, thereby resolving the contradiction between individual analysis accuracy and overall breeding efficiency
3Reliability
If nondestructive sampling is used, then seed viability is maintained for planting, but sampling and analysis capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the necessary minimal amount of material from each seed for analysis while leaving the seed intact and viable. The sampling apparatus removes small samples of seed material that are sufficient for genetic and chemical trait analysis, allowing the remaining seed to be planted and germinate normally, thus maintaining reliability while enabling high-throughput analysis of multiple seeds
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical destruction of seeds with a nondestructive sampling and analytical system. Instead of physically damaging or consuming the entire seed for analysis, the system uses sensitive detection methods that analyze tiny samples, substituting a gentle sampling mechanism with sophisticated analytical technology to maintain seed viability while increasing analysis capacity
Data Source
AI summary
Novel methods are provided to facilitate germplasm improvement activities through the use of high throughput, nondestructive sampling of seeds. A method for introgressive hybridization, for example, generally includes removing tissue samples from individual seeds using an automated seed sampler without affecting germination viability of the seeds, and analyzing nucleic acids extracted from the tissue samples for at least one genetic marker. The method then further includes selecting the sampled seeds that possess the at least one genetic marker, cultivating fertile plants from the selected seeds, and crossing the fertile plants with other plants.