A high-density genetic map constructed using specific length amplified fragment (SLAF) sequencing and QTL mapping of seed-related traits in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

BACKGROUND: Sesame (Sesamum indicum L., 2n = 2x = 26) is an important oilseed crop with high oil content but small seed size. To reveal the genetic loci of the quantitative seed-related traits, we constructed a high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) linkage map of an F(2) population by using specific length amplified fragment (SLAF) technique and determined the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) of seed-related traits for sesame based on the phenotypes of F(3) progeny. RESULTS: The genetic map comprised 2159 SNP markers distributed on 13 linkage groups (LGs) and was 2128.51 cM in length, with an average distance of 0.99 cM between adjacent markers. QTL mapping revealed 19 major-effect QTLs with the phenotypic effect (R(2)) more than 10%, i.e., eight QTLs for seed coat color, nine QTLs for seed size, and two QTLs for 1000-seed weight (TSW), using composite interval mapping method. Particularly, LG04 and LG11 contained collocated QTL regions for the seed coat color and seed size traits, respectively, based on their close or identical locations. In total, 155 candidate genes for seed coat color, 22 for seed size traits, and 54 for TSW were screened and analyzed. CONCLUSIONS: This report presents the first QTL mapping of seed-related traits in sesame using an F(2) population. The results reveal the location of specific markers associated with seed-related traits in sesame and provide the basis for further seed quality traits research.