The genetic basis of flowering time and photoperiod sensitivity in rapeseed <Emphasis Type="Italic">Brassica napus</Emphasis> L.

The objective of this study was to dissect the genetic control of days to flowering (DTF) and photoperiod sensitivity (PS) into the various components including the main-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs), epistatic QTLs and QTL-by-environment interactions (QEs). Doubled haploid (DH) lines were produced from an F₁ between two spring Brassica napus cultivars Hyola 401 and Q2. DTF of the DH lines and parents were investigated in two locations, one location with a short and the other with a long photoperiod regime over two years. PS was calculated by the delay in DTF under long day as compared to that under short day. A genetic linkage map was constructed that comprised 248 marker loci including SSR, SRAP, and AFLP markers. Further QTL analysis resolved the genetic components of flowering time and PS into the main-effect QTLs, epistatic QTLs, and QEs. A total of 7 main-effect QTLs and 11 digenic interactions involving 21 loci located on 13 out of the 19 linkage groups were detected for the two traits. Three main-effect QTLs and four pairs of epistatic QTLs were involved in QEs conferring DTF. One QTL on linkage group (LG) 18 was revealed to simultaneously affect DTF and PS and explain for the highest percentage of the phenotypic variation. The implications of the results for B. napus breeding have been discussed. The text was submitted by the authors in English.     

The main effects, epistatic effects and environmental interactions of QTLs on the cooking and eating quality of rice in a doubled-haploid line population

Amylose content (AC), gel consistency (GC) and gelatinazation temperature (GT) are three important traits that influence the cooking and eating quality of rice. The objective of this study was to characterize the genetic components, including main-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs), epistatic QTLs and QTL-by-environment interactions (QEs), that are involved in the control of these three traits. A population of doubled haploid (DH) lines derived from a cross between two indica varieties Zhenshan 97 and H94 was used, and data were collected from a field experiment conducted in two different environments. A genetic linkage map consisting of 218 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci was constructed, and QTL analysis performed using qtlmapper 1.6 resolved the genetic components into main-effect QTLs, epistatic QTLs and QEs. The analysis detected a total of 12 main-effect QTLs for the three traits, with a QTL corresponding to the Wx locus showing a major effect on AC and GC, and a QTL corresponding to the Alk locus having a major effect on GT. Ten digenic interactions involving 19 loci were detected for the three traits, and six main-effect QTLs and two pairs of epistatic QTLs were involved in QEs. While the main-effect QTLs, especially the ones corresponding to known major loci, apparently played predominant roles in the genetic basis of the traits, under certain conditions epistatic effects and QEs also played important roles in controlling the traits. The implications of the findings for rice quality improvement are discussed.     

Gene actions of QTLs affecting several agronomic traits resolved in a recombinant inbred rice population and two backcross populations

To understand the types of gene action controlling seven quantitative traits in rice, we carried out quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping in order to distinguish between the main-effect QTLs (M-QTLs) and digenic epistatic QTLs (E-QTLs) responsible for the trait performance of 254 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from rice varieties Lemont/Teqing and two backcross hybrid (BCF₁) populations derived from these RILs. We identified 44 M-QTL and 95 E-QTL pairs in the RI and BCF₁ populations as having significant effects on the mean values and mid-parental heterosis of heading date, plant height, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, panicle length, spikelet number and spikelet fertility. The E-QTLs detected collectively explained a larger portion of the total phenotypic variation than the M-QTLs in both the RI and BCF₁ populations. In both BCF₁ populations, over-dominant (or under-dominant) loci were more important than additive and complete or partially dominant loci for M-QTLs and E-QTL pairs, thereby supporting prior findings that overdominance resulting from epistatic loci are the primary genetic basis of inbreeding depression and heterosis in rice.     

RFLP-facilitated investigation of the quantitative resistance of rice to brown planthopper ( Nilaparvata lugens)

Quantitative trait loci (QTLs), conferring quantitative resistance to rice brown planthopper (BPH), were investigated using 160 F₁₁ recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from the Lemont/Teqing cross, a complete RFLP map, and replicated phenotyping of seedbox inoculation. The paternal indica parent, Teqing, was more-resistant to BPH than the maternal japonica parent, Lemont. The RILs showed transgressive segregation for resistance to BPH. Seven main-effect QTLs and many epistatic QTL pairs were identified and mapped on the 12 rice chromosomes. Collectively, the main-effect and epistatic QTLs accounted for over 70% of the total variation in damage scores. Teqing has the resistance allele at four main-effect QTLs, and the Lemont allele resulted in resistance at the other three. Of the main-effect QTLs identified, QBphr5b was mapped to the vicinity of gl1, a major gene controlling leaf and stem pubescence. The Teqing allele controlling leaf and stem pubescence was associated with resistance, while the Lemont allele for glabrous stem and leaves was associated with susceptibility, indicating that this gene may have contributed to resistance through antixenosis. Similar to the reported BPH resistance genes, the other six detected main-effect QTLs were all mapped to regions where major disease resistance genes locate, suggesting they might have contributed either to antibiosis or tolerance. Our results indicated that marker-aided pyramiding of major resistance genes and QTLs should provide effective and stable control over this devastating pest. Received: 10 December 2000 / Accepted: 7 May 2001     

Whole genome mapping in a wheat doubled haploid population using SSRs and TRAPs and the identification of QTL for agronomic traits

Genetic maps are useful for detecting quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with quantitative traits and for marker-assisted selection (MAS) in breeding. In this research, we used the wheat × maize method to develop a doubled haploid (DH) population derived from the synthetic hexaploid wheat (SHW) line TA4152-60 and the North Dakota hard red spring wheat line ND495. The population consisted of 213 lines, of which a subset of 120 lines was randomly selected and used to construct linkage maps of all 21 chromosomes and for QTL detection. The whole genome maps consisted of 632 markers including 410 SSRs, 218 TRAPs, 1 RFLP, and 3 phenotypic markers, and spanned 3,811.5 cM with an average density of one marker per 6.03 cM. Telomere sequence-based TRAPs allowed us to define the ends of seven linkage groups. Analysis revealed major QTLs associated with the traits of days to heading on chromosomes 5A and 5B, plant height on chromosomes 4D and 5A, and spike characteristics on chromosomes 3D, 4A, 4D, 5A and 5B. The DH population and genetic map will be a useful tool for the identification of disease resistance QTL and agronomically important loci, and will aid in the identification and development of markers for MAS. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.     

Genetic dissection of chlorophyll content at different growth stages in common wheat

Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for chlorophyll content were studied using a doubled haploid (DH) population with 168 progeny lines, derived from a cross between two elite Chinese wheat cultivars Huapei 3 × Yumai 57. Chlorophyll content was evaluated at the maximum tillering stage (MS), the heading stage (HS), and the grain filling stage (GS), at three different environments in 2005 and 2006 cropping seasons. QTL analyses were performed using a mixed linear model approach. A total of 17 additive QTLs and nine pairs of epistatic QTLs were detected. Ten of 17 additive QTLs for chlorophyll content were persistently expressed at more than two growth stages, which suggest developmentally regulated loci controlling genetics for chlorophyll content in different growth stages in wheat. One novel major QTL for chlorophyll content was closely linked with the PCR marker Xwmc215 and was persistently expressed at three growth stages.     

Genetic loci in the photoperiod pathway interactively modulate reproductive development of winter wheat

Responses to photoperiod and low temperature are the two primary adaptive mechanisms which enable wheat plants to synchronize developmental processes with changes in seasonal climate. In this study, the developmental process was characterized at two stages: stem length during the onset of stem elongation and heading date. These two developmental events were monitored and mapped in recombinant inbred lines (RILs) of a population generated from a cross between two complementary and locally adapted hard winter wheat cultivars. ‘Intrada’ undergoes stem elongation earlier but reaches heading later, whereas ‘Cimarron’ undergoes stem elongation later but reaches heading earlier. Variation in the developmental process in this population was associated with three major QTLs centered on Xbarc200 on chromosome 2B, PPD-D1 on chromosome 2D, and Xcfd14 on chromosome 7D. The Intrada Xbarc200 and Xcfd14 alleles and the Cimarron PPD-D1 allele accelerated both stem elongation and heading stages, or the Cimarron Xbarc200 and Xcfd14 alleles and the Intrada PPD-D1 allele delayed both stem elongation and heading stages. Integrative effects of the three QTLs accounted for 43% (initial stem length) and 68% (heading date) of the overall phenotypic variation in this population. PPD-D1 is a reasonable candidate gene for the QTL on chromosome 2D, PPD-B1 could be associated with the QTL on chromosome 2B, but VRN-D3 (=FT-D1) was not linked with the QTL on chromosome 7D, suggesting that this is a novel locus involved in winter wheat development. Because the PPD-D1 QTL was observed to interact with other two QTLs, all of these QTLs could play a role in the same pathway as involved in photoperiod response of winter wheat.     

Detection of epistatic interactions of three QTLs for heading date in rice using single segment substitution lines

A library consisting of 1123 single segment substitution lines (SSSLs) in the same genetic back-ground of an elite rice variety Huajingxian74 (HJX74) was evaluated for heading date. From this library, two SSSLs, W23-03-8-9-1 and W15-03-1-31, with substitution segments on chromosome 3 and 2, respectively, were found to have significantly different heading date from the recipient HJX74. For genetic dissection and epistatic interaction of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for heading date in two SSSLs, three secondary SSSLs with smaller substitution segments and genic pyramiding lines (GPLs) were developed from an F₂ segregating population of a cross between the two donor SSSLs, W23-03-8-9-1 and W15-03-1-31, using marker-assisted selection (MAS). The QTL analysis revealed that QTL for heading date detected in SSSL W23-03-08-9-1 was genetically dissected into two QTLs, qHD3-1 and qHD3-2, by overlapping mapping. At the same time, one QTL, qHD2-1 in the donor SSSL W15-03-1-31 was also identified. Analysis of GPLs for heading date showed epistatic interactions between qHD3-1 and qHD3-2, between qHD3-1 and qHD2-1, and between qHD3-2 and qHD2-1. These QTLs and epistatic interactions were confirmed in three cropping seasons under different natural daylength conditions, and their physiological functions for heading date were performed.     

Quantitative trait loci associated with blood pressure of metabolic syndrome in the progeny of NZO/HILtJ × C3H/HeJ intercrosses

In a previous study in 15 inbred mouse strains, we found highest and lowest systolic blood pressures in NZO/HILtJ mice (metabolic syndrome) and C3H/HeJ mice (common lean strain), respectively. To identify the loci involved in hypertension in metabolic syndrome, we performed quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis for blood pressure with direction of cross as a covariate in segregating F₂ males derived from NZO/HILtJ and C3H/HeJ mice. We detected three suggestive main-effect QTLs affecting systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP and DBP). We analyzed the first principle component (PC1) generated from SBP and DBP to investigate blood pressure. In addition to all the suggestive QTLs (Chrs 1, 3, and 8) in SBP and DBP, one suggestive QTL on Chr 4 was found in PC1 in the main scan. Simultaneous search identified two significant epistatic locus pairs (Chrs 1 and 4, Chrs 4 and 8) for PC1. Multiple regression analysis revealed three blood pressure QTLs (Bpq10, 100 cM on Chr 1; Bpq11, 6 cM on Chr 4; Bpq12, 29 cM on Chr 8) accounting for 29.4% of blood pressure variance. These were epistatic interaction QTLs constructing a small network centered on Chr 4, suggesting the importance of genetic interaction for development of hypertension. The blood pressure QTLs on Chrs 1, 4, and 8 were detected repeatedly in multiple studies using common inbred nonobese mouse strains, implying substantial QTL independent of development of obesity and insulin resistance. These results enhance our understanding of complicated genetic factors of hypertension in metabolic diseases. Eri Nishihara, Shirng-Wern Tsaih, Chieko Tsukahara and Sarah Langley contributed equally to this work.     

The genetic basis of flowering time and photoperiod sensitivity in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)

The objective of this study was to dissect the genetic control of days to flowering (DTF) and photoperiod sensitivity (PS) into the various components including the main-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs), epistatic QTLs and QTL-by-environment interactions (QEs). Doubled haploid (DH) fines were produced from an F1 between two spring Brassica napus cultivars Hyola 401 and Q2. DTF of the DH lines and parents were investigated in two locations, one location with a short and the other with a long photoperiod regime over two years. PS was calculated by the delay in DTF under long day as compared to that under short day. A genetic linkage map was constructed that comprised 248 marker loci including SSR, SRAP and AFLP markers. Further QTL analysis resolved the genetic components of flowering time and PS into the main-effect QTLs, epistatic QTLs and QEs. A total of 7 main-effect QTLs and 11 digenic interactions involving 21 loci located on 13 out of the 19 linkage groups were detected for the two traits. 3 main-effect QTLs and 4 pairs of epistatic QTLs were involved in QEs conferring DTF. One QTL on linkage group (LG) 18 was revealed to simultaneously affect DTF and PS and explain for the highest percentage of the phenotypic variation. The implications of the results for B. napus breeding have been discussed.     

Mapping of QTLs conferring extremely early heading in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Two genes related to extremely early heading were identified in populations derived from crosses between Hoshinoyume, a variety adapted to the northernmost limit of rice cultivation (Hokkaido), and Nipponbare, a variety adapted to the temperate region of Japan. The segregations for heading date clearly revealed that a two-gene model determined the extremely early heading in the F₂ and BC₁F₁ populations under natural field conditions in Hokkaido. Using molecular markers corresponding to ten known quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for heading date, we carried out QTL analysis in the BC₁F₁ population and detected two QTLs, qDTH-7-1 and qDTH-7-2, both on chromosome 7, and observed epistatic interaction between them. We conclude that the recessive alleles of these two genes contribute to extremely early heading for the adaptation to Hokkaido environment and to stable rice production in Hokkaido. The relationships between the two QTLs identified in this study and known QTLs are discussed.     

Enrichment of a common wheat genetic map and QTL mapping for fatty acid content in grain

DArT and SSR markers were used to saturate and improve a previous genetic map of RILs derived from the cross Chuan35050 × Shannong483. The new map comprised 719 loci, 561 of which were located on specific chromosomes, giving a total map length of 4008.4 cM; the rest 158 loci were mapped to the most likely intervals. The average chromosome length was 190.9 cM and the marker density was 7.15 cM per marker interval. Among the 719 loci, the majority of marker loci were DArTs (361); the rest included 170 SSRs, 100 EST-SSRs, and 88 other molecular and biochemical loci. QTL mapping for fatty acid content in wheat grain was conducted in this study. Forty QTLs were detected in different environments, with single QTL explaining 3.6-58.1% of the phenotypic variations. These QTLs were distributed on 16 chromosomes. Twenty-two QTLs showed positive additive effects, with Chuan35050 increasing the QTL effects, whereas 18 QTLs were negative with increasing effects from Shannong483. Six sets of co-located QTLs for different traits occurred on chromosomes 1B, 1D, 2D, 5D, and 6B.     

Molecular mapping of Fusarium head blight resistance in the winter wheat population Dream/Lynx

Fusarium head blight (FHB), mainly caused by Fusarium graminearum and F. culmorum, can significantly reduce the grain quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) due to mycotoxin contamination. The objective of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for FHB resistance in a winter wheat population developed by crossing the resistant German cultivar Dream with the susceptible British cultivar Lynx. A total of 145 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were evaluated following spray inoculation with a F. culmorum suspension in field trials in 2002 in four environments across Germany. Based on amplified fragment length polymorphism and simple sequence repeat marker data, a 1,734 cM linkage map was established assuming that the majority of the polymorphic parts of the genome were covered. The area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) was calculated based on the visually scored FHB symptoms. The population segregated quantitatively for FHB severity. Composite interval mapping analysis for means across the environments identified four FHB resistance QTLs on chromosomes 6AL, 1B, 2BL and 7BS. Individually the QTLs explained 19%, 12%, 11% and 21% of the phenotypic variance, respectively, and together accounted for 41%. The QTL alleles conferring resistance on 6AL, 2BL and 7BS originated from cv. Dream. The resistance QTL on chromosome 6AL partly overlapped with a QTL for plant height. The FHB resistance QTL on 7BS coincided with a QTL for heading date, but the additive effect on heading date was of minor importance. The resistance QTL on chromosome 1B was associated with the T1BL.1RS wheat-rye translocation of Lynx.     

Exploring the quantitative resistance to <Emphasis Type="Italic">Pseudomonas syringae</Emphasis> pv. <Emphasis Type="Italic">phaseolicola</Emphasis> in common bean (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Phaseolus vulgaris</Emphasis> L.)

Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola is an important disease that causes halo blight in common bean. The genetic mechanisms underlying quantitative halo blight resistance are poorly understood in this species, as most disease studies have focused on qualitative resistance. The present work examines the genetic basis of quantitative resistance to the nine halo blight races in different organs (primary and trifoliate leaf, stem and pod) of an Andean recombinant inbred line (RIL) progeny. Using a multi-environment quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping approach, 76 and 101 main-effect and epistatic QTLs were identified, respectively. Most of the epistatic interactions detected were due to loci without detectable QTL additive main effects. Main and epistatic QTLs detected were mainly consistent across the environment conditions. The homologous genomic regions corresponding to 26 of the 76 main-effect detected QTLs were positive for the presence of resistance-associated gene cluster encoding nucleotide-binding and leucine-rich repeat (NL) proteins and known defence genes. Main-effect QTLs for resistance to races 3, 4 and 5 in leaf, stem and pod were located on chromosome 2 within a 3.01-Mb region, where a cluster of nine NL genes was detected. The NL gene Phvul.002G323300 is located in this region, which can be considered an important putative candidate gene for the non-organ-specific QTL identified here. The present research provides essential information not only for the better understanding of the plant-pathogen interaction but also for the application of genomic assisted breeding for halo blight resistance in common bean.     

Identification of major QTLs and epistatic interactions for seed protein concentration in soybean under multiple environments based on a high-density map

The concentration of protein in soybean is an important trait that drives successful soybean quality. A recombinant inbred line derived from a cross between the Charleston and Dongnong594 cultivars was planted in one location across 10 years and two locations across 5 years in China (20 environments in total), and the genetic effects were partitioned into additive main effects, epistatic main effects and their environmental interaction effects using composite interval mapping and inclusive composite interval mapping models based on a high-density genetic map. Ten main-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were identified on chromosomes 3, 6, 7, 13, 15 and 20 and detected in more than three environments, with each of the main-effect QTLs contributing a phenotypic variation of around 10 %. Between the intervals of the main-effect QTLs, 93 candidate genes were screened for their involvement in seed protein storage and/or amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism processes based on gene ontology and annotation information. Furthermore, an analysis of epistatic interactions showed that three epistatic QTL pairs were detected, and could explain approximately 50 % of the phenotypic variation. The additive main-effect QTLs and epistatic QTL pairs contributed to high phenotypic variation under multiple environments, and the results were also validated and corroborated with previous research, indicating that marker-assisted selection can be used to improve soybean protein concentrations and that the candidate genes can also be used as a foundation data set for research on gene function.     

Mapping quantitative trait loci controlling seed dormancy and heading date in rice, Oryza sativa L., using backcross inbred lines

 To detect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) controlling seed dormancy, 98 BC₁F₅ lines (backcross inbred lines) derived from a backcross of Nipponbare (japonica)/Kasalath (indica)//Nipponbare were analyzed genetically. We used 245 RFLP markers to construct a framework linkage map. Five putative QTLs affecting seed dormancy were detected on chromosomes 3, 5, 7 (two regions) and 8, respectively. Phenotypic variations explained by each QTL ranged from 6.7% to 22.5% and the five putative QTLs explained about 48% of the total phenotypic variation in the BC₁F₅ lines. Except for those of the QTLs on chromosome 8, the Nipponbare alleles increased the germination rate. Five putative QTLs controlling heading date were detected on chromosomes 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7, respectively. The phenotypic variation explained by each QTL for heading date ranged from 5.7% to 23.4% and the five putative QTLs explained about 52% of the total phenotypic variation. The Nipponbare alleles increased the number of days to heading, except for those of two QTLs on chromosomes 2 and 3. The map location of a putative QTL for heading date coincided with that of a major QTL for seed dormancy on chromosome 3, although two major heading-date QTLs did not coincide with any seed dormancy QTLs detected in this study. Received: 10 October 1997 / Accepted: 12 January 1998     

QTL, additive and epistatic effects for SCN resistance in PI 437654

PI 437654 is a unique accession because of its resistance to nearly all HG types (races) of soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines Ichinohe; SCN). Objectives of this study were to confirm and refine the locations and gene action associated with SCN resistance previously discovered in PI 437654, and to identify new QTLs that may have been missed because of low coverage with genetic markers used in previous studies. Using 205 F_7:9 RILs and 276 SSR and AFLP molecular markers covering 2,406.5 cM of 20 linkage groups (LGs), we confirmed and refined the locations of major SCN resistance QTLs on LG-A2, -B1, and -G previously identified in PI 437654 or other resistant sources. We found that these major QTLs have epistatic effects among them or with other loci for SCN resistance. We also detected some new QTLs with additive or epistatic effects for SCN resistance to different HG types (races) on all LGs except LGs-B2 and -D1b. The QTL on LG-G was associated with resistance to HG types 2.5.7, 1.2.5.7, 0, and 2.7 (races 1, 2, 3, and 5), and it contributed a large proportion of the additive effects. The QTL on LG-A2 was associated with resistance to HG types 2.5.7 and 0 (races 1 and 3). The QTL on LG-B1, associated with resistance to HG types 2.5.7, 0, 2.7 (races 1, 3, and 5), was the similar QTL found in PI 90763 and PI 404198B. In addition to QTL on LGs-A2, -B1 and -G, a novel additive QTL associated with SCN resistance to HG types 0, 2.7, and 1.3.5.6.7 (race 3, 5, and 14) was identified on LG-I flanked by Sat_299 and Sat_189. Several minor QTLs on LGs-C1, D1a, H, and K were also found to be associated with SCN resistance. Confirmation of the new resistance QTL is underway by evaluating another RIL population with a different genetic background.     

Epistatic interaction is an important genetic basis of grain yield and its components in maize

A population of 294 recombinant inbred lines (RIL) derived from Yuyu22, an elite maize hybrid extending broadly in China, has been constructed to investigate the genetic basis of grain yield, and associated yield components in maize. The main-effect quantitative trait loci (QTL), digenic epistatic interactions, and their interactions with the environment for grain yield and its three components were identified by using the mixed linear model approach. Thirty-two main-effect QTL and forty-four pairs of digenic epistatic interactions were detected for the four measured traits in four environments. Our results suggest that both additive effects and epistasis (additive × additive) effects are important genetic bases of grain yield and its components in the RIL population. Only 30.4% of main-effect QTL for ear length were involved in epistatic interactions. This implies that many loci in epistatic interactions may not have significant effects for traits alone but may affect trait expression by epistatic interaction with the other loci.     

High-Density Genetic Linkage Map Construction and QTL Mapping of Grain Shape and Size in the Wheat Population Yanda1817 × Beinong6

High-density genetic linkage maps are necessary for precisely mapping quantitative trait loci (QTLs) controlling grain shape and size in wheat. By applying the Infinium iSelect 9K SNP assay, we have constructed a high-density genetic linkage map with 269 F ₈ recombinant inbred lines (RILs) developed between a Chinese cornerstone wheat breeding parental line Yanda1817 and a high-yielding line Beinong6. The map contains 2431 SNPs and 128 SSR & EST-SSR markers in a total coverage of 3213.2 cM with an average interval of 1.26 cM per marker. Eighty-eight QTLs for thousand-grain weight (TGW), grain length (GL), grain width (GW) and grain thickness (GT) were detected in nine ecological environments (Beijing, Shijiazhuang and Kaifeng) during five years between 2010–2014 by inclusive composite interval mapping (ICIM) (LOD≥2.5). Among which, 17 QTLs for TGW were mapped on chromosomes 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 3D, 4A, 4D, 5A, 5B and 6B with phenotypic variations ranging from 2.62% to 12.08%. Four stable QTLs for TGW could be detected in five and seven environments, respectively. Thirty-two QTLs for GL were mapped on chromosomes 1B, 1D, 2A, 2B, 2D, 3B, 3D, 4A, 4B, 4D, 5A, 5B, 6B, 7A and 7B, with phenotypic variations ranging from 2.62% to 44.39%. QGl.cau-2A.2 can be detected in all the environments with the largest phenotypic variations, indicating that it is a major and stable QTL. For GW, 12 QTLs were identified with phenotypic variations range from 3.69% to 12.30%. We found 27 QTLs for GT with phenotypic variations ranged from 2.55% to 36.42%. In particular, QTL QGt.cau-5A.1 with phenotypic variations of 6.82–23.59% was detected in all the nine environments. Moreover, pleiotropic effects were detected for several QTL loci responsible for grain shape and size that could serve as target regions for fine mapping and marker assisted selection in wheat breeding programs.     

Detection of QTLs for Stagonospora glume blotch resistance in Swiss winter wheat

Stagonospora nodorum is the causal agent of the Stagonospora glume blotch disease in hexaploid wheat. The Swiss winter bread wheat cv. 'Arina' has a highly effective, durable and quantitative glume blotch resistance. We studied 240 single seed descent (SSD)-derived lines of an 'Arina × Forno' F_5:7 population to identify and map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for glume blotch resistance under natural infestation. Using composite interval mapping (CIM) and LOD>4.5, we detected two chromosomal regions on chromosome arms 3BS and 4BL which were specifically associated with glume blotch resistance. These identified QTLs were designated QSng.sfr-3BS and QSng.sfr-4BL, respectively. QSng.sfr-3BS peaked at the locus Xgwm389 in the telomeric region of the short arm of chromosome 3B and explained 31.2% of the observed phenotypic variance for the resistance within the population. The responsible QSng.sfr-3BS allele originated from the resistant parent 'Arina'. The QTL QSng.sfr-4BL (19.1%) mapped to chromosome arm 4BL ('Forno' allele) very close to two known genes, TaMlo and a catalase (Cat). Both QTL alleles combined could enhance the resistance level by about 50%. Additionally, they showed significant epistatic effects (4.4%). We found PCR-based microsatellite markers closely linked to QSng.sfr-3BS (gwm389) and QSng.sfr-4BL (gwm251) which make marker-assisted selection (MAS) for Stagonospora glume blotch resistance feasible. We also found one resistance QTL, QSng.sfr-5BL, on the long arm of chromosome 5B which overlapped with QTLs for plant height as well as heading time.Communicated by H. C. Becker