Tools for marking plant disease and pest resistance genes: a review

Abstract

Genetic mapping of disease resistance genes will help improve the efficiency of plant breeding and will lead to a better understanding of the molecular basis of resistance. It requires, however, both reliable pathological tests and polymorphic genetic markers in a well-defined segregating population. In recent years, a number of different types of genetic markers have become available. The characteristics and gene-tagging efficiency of morphological and molecular markers are reviewed. Two strategies for developing markers for disease resistance genes are presented: the establishment of genetic maps with localization of major genes and QTLs; and targeting particular regions. We discuss how molecular mapping studies provide new insights on the localization and organization of the genes involved in disease resistance. © 1995.