Multiplex PCR Assay to Detect Rust Resistance Genes Lr26 and Lr37 in Wheat

Multiplex PCR was developed and optimized for simultaneous detection of wheat leaf rust resistance genes Lr26 and Lr37. The presence of the genes was analyzed in 21 winter wheat cultivars registered in the Czech Republic. Gene Lr37 was detected in four tested cultivars (Bakfis, Biscay, Nicol, Mulan), gene Lr26 occurred only in one cultivar (Etela) and three cultivars (Clarus, Orlando and Rapsodia) were found to carry both these genes. Data obtained by PCR markers were compared with results of greenhouse and field tests. Seedling reactions of cultivars possessing Lr26 to seven different leaf rust isolates conformed to the results obtained by the marker analysis, however, there were found some discrepancies in the detections of Lr37, which could be detected in greenhouse seedling tests only with difficulties.