First genetic linkage map of Lathyrus cicera based on RNA sequencing-derived markers: Key tool for genetic mapping of disease resistance

Abstract

Legumes: Tools for mapping genes for rust resistance Genetic analysis of Lathyrus cicera, or ‘chickling pea’, a plant most commonly cultivated for animal feed, identified DNA polymorphisms that may be associated to resistance to the fungal disease known as rust. Researchers in Europe led by Maria Carlota Vaz Patto at the NOVA University of Lisbon, Portugal, discovered thousands of genetic differences between plants that were either susceptible to or at least partially resistant to the rust fungus Uromyces pisi. They created a ‘genetic linkage map’, which reveals the likelihood that different genetic characteristics will be inherited together through the generations. This map can now serve as a tool to help geneticists and plant breeders understand and promote resistance to rust and potentially other fungal diseases in L cicera. The results may also be applied to other legumes, including peas and beans more commonly cultivated for human consumption.