Molecular Markers for Identifying Resistance Genes in Brassica napus

Blackleg disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Leptosphaeria maculans, is the most devastating disease of canola (Brassica napus, oilseed rape) worldwide. Breeding for genetic resistance is the most widely used tool for controlling this disease and minimizing the impact on yield. To date, five resistance genes (Rlm2, LepR3, Rlm4, Rlm7, Rlm9) have been cloned from B. napus, representing alleles of two different gene loci, Rlm2-LepR3 and Rlm4-7-9. We report on the development and validation of Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) markers that can discriminate between the resistant and susceptible alleles of each resistance gene. These markers will provide valuable tools for both researchers and industry through the ability to characterize resistance genes without phenotyping.

Automated summary

This study developed and validated KASP markers that can differentiate between resistant and susceptible alleles of blackleg disease resistance genes. These markers will provide valuable tools for researchers and industry without the need for phenotyping.