Dissecting Genetic Network of Fruit Branch Traits in Upland Cotton by Association Mapping Using SSR Markers

PLoS One. 2017 Jan 25;12(1):e0162815. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162815. eCollection 2017.

Abstract

Genetic architecture of branch traits has large influences on the morphological structure, photosynthetic capacity, planting density, and yield of Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). This research aims to reveal the genetic effects of six branch traits, including bottom fruit branch node number (BFBNN), bottom fruit branch length (BFBL), middle fruit branch node number (MFBNN), middle fruit branch length (MFBL), upper fruit branch node number (UFBNN), and upper fruit branch length (UFBL). Association mapping was conducted for these traits of 39 lines and their 178 F1 hybrids in three environments. There were 20 highly significant Quantitative Trait SSRs (QTSs) detected by mixed linear model approach analyzing a full genetic model with genetic effects of additive, dominance, epistasis and their environment interaction. The phenotypic variation explained by genetic effects ranged from 32.64 ~ 91.61%, suggesting these branch traits largely influenced by genetic factors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chromosomes, Plant*
  • Crosses, Genetic
  • Fruit
  • Gene Regulatory Networks*
  • Genetic Linkage
  • Genetic Markers*
  • Genome, Plant*
  • Gossypium / genetics*
  • Phenotype
  • Quantitative Trait Loci*

Substances

  • Genetic Markers

Grants and funding

This study was supported by the National High Technology Research Development 863 Plan (2009AA101104), the National Basic Research Program of China (973) (2011CB109306), the National Cotton Industry Technology System (CARS-18), and the Scientific Research Program of the Higher Education Institution of Xinjiang, China (XJEdu 2006I59). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.