Abstract
Cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) are an important food crop and an essential part of traditional cropping systems in tropical and subtropical regions. In addition to their resistance to harsh environmental conditions, cowpeas serve as a significant source of protein for both human and animal consumption. They are also increasingly targeted as a crop due to their potential to contribute to the growing global demand for plant-based protein. Seed protein content ranges from 23% to 32% of seed weight in breeding lines from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) collection. Most breeding programs have focused on drought tolerance, as well as resistance to pests and diseases. However, improving nutrient content is equally valuable. This study used a multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population consisting of 235 F8 recombinant inbred lines with eight diverse founder parents. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping for seed storage protein content, and amino acids was performed using genetic analysis software for multi-parental pure line populations (GAPL). Significant QTLs were identified on chromosomes 3, 4, and 6 for protein content, on chromosomes 1, 2, 3 and 6 for Isoleucine, and on chromosome 1, 2, and 3 for Methionine with a LOD score of 3 for all phenotypes. Transcriptome analysis for differential gene expression analysis is being used to identify candidate genes associated with storage protein content, and amino acids. This study will contribute to the understanding of the genetic basis and marker-assisted breeding of cowpea seed protein content, tannins, and seed size.
Keywords
Quantitative trait loci (QTL), Multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross population (MAGIC)
DOI
10.5703/1288284318189
Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) Mapping for Protein Content, and Amino Acids in a Cowpea MAGIC Population
Cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) are an important food crop and an essential part of traditional cropping systems in tropical and subtropical regions. In addition to their resistance to harsh environmental conditions, cowpeas serve as a significant source of protein for both human and animal consumption. They are also increasingly targeted as a crop due to their potential to contribute to the growing global demand for plant-based protein. Seed protein content ranges from 23% to 32% of seed weight in breeding lines from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) collection. Most breeding programs have focused on drought tolerance, as well as resistance to pests and diseases. However, improving nutrient content is equally valuable. This study used a multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population consisting of 235 F8 recombinant inbred lines with eight diverse founder parents. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping for seed storage protein content, and amino acids was performed using genetic analysis software for multi-parental pure line populations (GAPL). Significant QTLs were identified on chromosomes 3, 4, and 6 for protein content, on chromosomes 1, 2, 3 and 6 for Isoleucine, and on chromosome 1, 2, and 3 for Methionine with a LOD score of 3 for all phenotypes. Transcriptome analysis for differential gene expression analysis is being used to identify candidate genes associated with storage protein content, and amino acids. This study will contribute to the understanding of the genetic basis and marker-assisted breeding of cowpea seed protein content, tannins, and seed size.