Identification of PCR markers linked to different Or genes in sunflower

Abstract

Broomrape is a parasitic plant that significantly decreases yield of sunflower. Breeding for resistance has proved to be the most efficient method for suppressing broomrape infestation in the field; however, new races of parasite constantly emerge, and new resistance genes need to be discovered and introduced into cultivated sunflower lines. The aim of this work was to test SSR markers from linkage group 3 (LG3) to investigate whether they could be used for identification of a particular Or gene. Twenty sunflower inbred lines were used, and polymorphism between the lines with various resistance genes and genetic background was investigated. The used markers revealed DNA polymorphism between the investigated lines. Strong association of markers from LG3 with Or6, as well as Or4 and Or2 genes, was found. Identified markers could be used for introduction of these resistance genes into commercial sunflower lines and for establishment and identification of differential lines.