QTL Genetic Mapping Study for Traits Affecting Meal Quality in Winter Oilseed Rape (Brassica Napus L.)

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) meal is an important source of protein, but the presence of anti-nutritional compounds, such as fibre and glucosinolates, still limits its use as a livestock feed. Understanding the genetic basis of seed fibre biosynthesis would help to manipulate its content in seeds of oilseed rape. Here, we applied high-resolution skim genotyping by sequencing (SkimGBS) and characterised 187,835 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers across a mapping population subsequently used for a genetic mapping study (R/qtl). This approach allowed the identification of 11 stable QTL related to seed quality traits and led to the identification of potential functional genes underlying these traits. Among these, key genes with a known role in carbohydrate metabolic process, cell wall, lignin, and flavonoid biosynthesis, including cellulase GH5, TT10/LAC15, TT4, and SUC2, were found. This study furthers the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying seed fibre content and provides new markers for molecular breeding in B. napus.