Quantitative trait loci mapping of heat tolerance in broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) using genotyping-by-sequencing

Theor Appl Genet. 2017 Mar;130(3):529-538. doi: 10.1007/s00122-016-2832-x. Epub 2016 Nov 29.

Abstract

Five quantitative trait loci and one epistatic interaction were associated with heat tolerance in a doubled haploid population of broccoli evaluated in three summer field trials. Predicted rising global temperatures due to climate change have generated a demand for crops that are resistant to yield and quality losses from heat stress. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is a cool weather crop with high temperatures during production decreasing both head quality and yield. Breeding for heat tolerance in broccoli has potential to both expand viable production areas and extend the growing season but breeding efficiency is constrained by limited genetic information. A doubled haploid (DH) broccoli population segregating for heat tolerance was evaluated for head quality in three summer fields in Charleston, SC, USA. Multiple quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping of 1,423 single nucleotide polymorphisms developed through genotyping-by-sequencing identified five QTL and one positive epistatic interaction that explained 62.1% of variation in heat tolerance. The QTL identified here can be used to develop markers for marker-assisted selection and to increase our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying plant response to heat stress.

MeSH terms

  • Brassica / genetics*
  • Brassica / physiology
  • Chromosome Mapping*
  • Epistasis, Genetic
  • Genetic Markers
  • Genotype
  • Haploidy
  • Phenotype
  • Plant Breeding
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
  • Quantitative Trait Loci*
  • Thermotolerance / genetics*

Substances

  • Genetic Markers