Genome-wide association analysis identifies a consistent QTL for powdery mildew resistance on chromosome 3A in Nordic and Baltic spring wheat

In this study, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using extensive field trial data from multiple environments across Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Norway. The study involved a diverse panel of recent wheat cultivars and breeding lines sourced from the Baltic region and Norway. We identified a major quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chromosome 3A, designated as QPm.NOBAL-3A, which consistently conferred high resistance to powdery mildew across various environments and countries. Furthermore, the consistency of the QTL haplotype effect was validated using an independent Norwegian spring wheat panel. Subsequent greenhouse seedling inoculations with 15 representative powdery mildew isolates on a subset of the GWAS panel indicated that this QTL provides adult plant resistance and is likely of race non-specific nature. Moreover, we developed and validated KASP markers for QPm.NOBAL-3A tailored for use in breeding. These findings provide a critical foundation for marker-assisted selection in breeding programs aimed at pyramiding resistance QTL/genes to achieve durable and broad-spectrum resistance against powdery mildew.PMID:38240841 | PMC:PMC10799116 | DOI:10.1007/s00122-023-04529-1

Source: TAG. Theoretical and Applied Genetics - January 19, 2024 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Min Lin Bulat Islamov Andrius Aleli ūnas Rita Armonien ė Andrii Gorash Egon Meigas Anne Ingver Ilmar Tamm Hannes Kollist Vija Strazdi ņa M āra Bleidere Gintaras Brazauskas Morten Lillemo Source Type: research