Genome-Wide Association Study and Functional Pathway Insights into Sorghum [<em>Sorghum bicolor </em>(L.) Moench] Grain Quality Traits

Enhancing grain quality is a primary breeding goal for sorghum [Sor-ghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. The levels of tannins, starch, and proteins have the greatest impact on the nutritional value and end-use quality of sorghum grains; however, limited information is available on the ge-netic basis of these traits. This study aims to identify genome-wide marker-trait associations for grain quality traits in a diverse sorghum genotype panel. We evaluated ninety-four diverse sorghum genotypes for their levels of starch, tannins, and nitrogen. Genome-wide associa-tion studies based on 6994 SNPs identified 32 marker-trait associations (MTAs), involving 12, 12, and 8 genetic loci linked to tannin, nitrogen, and starch levels, respectively. Seven loci associated with grain quality traits were validated from candidate markers, with tannin-related markers being the most abundant. Genotypes varied in their allele composition, with Gicamunkoni and Gadam carrying the highest number of alleles, highlighting them as promising parental sources. The study identifies important genetic loci linked to grain nitrogen, starch, and tannin in sorghum, offering valuable opportunities for mark-er-assisted selection. These results provide a foundation for breeding programs aimed at improving grain quality and promoting wider uti-lization of sorghum.