A SNP-Based High-Density Genetic Map Reveals Reproducible QTLs for Tassel-Related Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)

摘要: The tassel architecture of maize (Zea mays L.), which plays an important role in F1 hybrid seed production and yield performance, is genetically controlled by quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Here, we constructed a high-density SNP-based genetic map using F2 population containing 148 individuals. This included 7613 SNPs whose average distance was 0.19 cM. On account the population, detected 14 QTLs responsible for branch number (TBN), weight (TW), central spike length (CSL), meristem (ML); eight these demonstrated relatively high level phenotypic variation explanation (PVE) (PVE ≥ 10%), at significance. qTW-2 major QTL (LOD = 10.11 PVE = 28.82%), this qTBN-2 shared same region, indicating possible pleiotropic effect. An F2:3 developed to further verify population. Finally, qTBN-5, qCSL_N-10 were reproducibly. To help screen potential candidate genes, chose 12 genes within regions qML-6, qCSL_N-7 that possibly involved morphogenesis according Gene Ontology (GO) annotation analysis performed real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). expression significantly (P < 0.05) or extremely different (P < 0.01) between parents during young development stage, suggesting those genes. These results provide insights into mechanisms controlling will benefit both tassel-related fine mapping causal gene cloning maize.