Mapping and validation of major and stable QTL for flag leaf size from tetraploid wheat

The flag leaf is an important photosynthetic organ of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Appropriate flag leaf size can effectively increase grain yield. In this study, a tetraploid wheat population of recombinant inbred lines (RILs) and a genetic map constructed based on a wheat 55K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array were used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for flag leaf length (FLL), flag leaf width (FLW), flag leaf area (FLA), and the flag leaf length/width ratio (FLR). A novel and major interval flanked by markers AX-111633224 and AX-109317229 was identified. This interval includes QTL for FLL (QFll.sau-AM-4B.2), for FLW (QFlw.sau-AM-4B.4), for FLA (QFla.sau-AM-4B), and for FLR (QFlr.sau-AM-4B). Based on the genotypes of the closely linked KASP (Kompetitive allele-specific polymerase chain reaction [PCR]) marker (KASP-AX-108756198), QFlw.sau-AM-4B.4 and QFla.sau-AM-4B were successfully verified in two F-3 populations with different genetic backgrounds. Genetic associations between flag leaf-related traits and other agronomic traits were detected and analyzed. Four genes in this interval were likely involved in the growth and development of the flag leaf size. In conclusion, this study provides clues for excavating genes related to flag leaf size and breeding variety with ideal plant structure.

Automated summary

This study identified quantitative trait loci (QTL) for flag leaf length, width, area, and the length/width ratio in tetraploid wheat using recombinant inbred lines and a genetic map. A novel and major interval containing QTL for these traits was discovered and successfully verified in different genetic backgrounds. The study also detected and analyzed genetic associations between flag leaf-related traits and other agronomic traits. Several genes within this interval are likely involved in the growth and development of flag leaf size. Overall, this study provides important insights for understanding the genetic basis of flag leaf size and breeding wheat varieties with ideal plant structures.