A novel and high throughput wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotyping using Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR assay for genes underpinning major economic attributes

Wheat breeding programs are increasingly using molecular tools to improve efficiency and speed of developing productive cultivars. Molecular markers such as Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) have now become a principal approach to study genetic relationship among various wheat species. The objective of our research study was to identify and distinguished the wheat parents and their hybrid for genes controlling major agronomical attributes. Germplasm comprised of fifteen genotypes were genotyped for gluten strength (Glu A1, Glu D1), height reduction (Rht 1), starch quality (Waxy), vernalization (Vrn A1, Vrn B1), photoperiod sensitivity (Ppd 1), Tan spot disease (Tns-1) and leaf rust disease (Lr34). Statistical analysis with endpoint genotyping, graphical display and principal coordinate revealed significant results for KASP assay. Most variable crosses were S₃ X I₁, S₃ X I₃, S₂ X I₁, S₂ X I₂ and S₁ X I₁ with maximum segregants. Whereas, variation was observed for Glu-D1, Tsn1, Glu-A1 followed by Lr34 alleles. Therefore, the objective was achieved successfully with the most reliable KASP markers. The diverse attributes dissected, and key hybrids identified in this study would provide guidance for the improvement of the economically important traits and provide understanding of genetic variability in distinct segregating populations. Besides we have identified significantly important partial mutants in the germplasm for Waxy allele. These findings could provide the end user with wheat products with improved quality such as with or without amylose content.