An introduction to markers, quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and marker-assisted selection for crop improvement: The basic concepts

Authors: Collard, B.¹; Jahufer, M.²; Brouwer, J.³; Pang, E.⁴

Source: Euphytica, Volume 142, Numbers 1-2, January 2005 , pp. 169-196(28)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Recognizing the enormous potential of DNA markers in plant breeding, many agricultural research centers and plant breeding institutes have adopted the capacity for marker development and marker-assisted selection (MAS). However, due to rapid developments in marker technology, statistical methodology for identifying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and the jargon used by molecular biologists, the utility of DNA markers in plant breeding may not be clearly understood by non-molecular biologists. This review provides an introduction to DNA markers and the concept of polymorphism, linkage analysis and map construction, the principles of QTL analysis and how markers may be applied in breeding programs using MAS. This review has been specifically written for readers who have only a basic knowledge of molecular biology and/or plant genetics. Its format is therefore ideal for conventional plant breeders, physiologists, pathologists, other plant scientists and students.

Keywords: bulked-segregant analysis; DNA markers; linkage map; marker-assisted selection; quantitative trait loci (QTLs); QTL analysis; QTL mapping

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10681-005-1681-5

Affiliations: 1: Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Biology, RMIT University, P.O. Box 71, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia, Email: bcycollard@hotmail.com 2: AgResearch Ltd., Grasslands Research Centre, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North, Private Bag 11008, New Zealand, 3: P.O. Box 910, Horsham, Victoria, Australia, 3402, 4: Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Biology, RMIT University, P.O. Box 71, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia,

Publication date: 2005-01-01