Papaya ringspot virus-W (PRSV-W) is a potyvirus vectored by aphids that causes severe yield losses in squash production. Resistance to PRSV-W in the ‘Nigerian Local’ accession of Cucurbita moschata is controlled by at least one recessive gene and other potential genetic modifiers. Deployment of marker-assisted selection can accelerate transfer of the resistance into elite cultivars, but this tool is limited by lack of QTL and marker information. Whole genome re-sequencing and bulk segregant analysis by the Meru laboratory (Univ Florida) identified a single QTL for resistance on Chromosome 09 of the C. moschata genome. Subsequent testing identified two SNP markers as potential targets for marker-assisted selection. The findings of this study will facilitate breeding for resistance against PRSV-W in commercial squash cultivars.
For further information:
- Whole genome re-sequencing and bulk segregant analysis reveals chromosomal location for PRSV-W resistance in squash
by: Swati Shrestha, Yuqing Fu, Vincent Njung’e Michael and Geoffrey Meru
Published in Frontiers in Plant Science in May 2022
DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.848631
