Molecular Mapping of Grapevine Genes

Abstract

In this chapter, we review the history of grapevine genetics and gene mapping. Genetic markers are introduced considering both sequence-based and sequence-independent approaches used for variant discovery. We provide a survey of genotyping tools, from low- to high-throughput platforms. We describe general principles of map building and imple- mentation, highlighting specificities for outbred species such as the grapevine. Then, we review the different approaches applied for QTL iden- tification according to the genetic material, from bi-parental progenies, pedigree-supported seg- regating populations, to germplasm collection. In particular, ouremphasis is on the relevance of such studies for the dissection ofa complex trait. We describe the difficult process of identifying genes responsible for QTLs and the few cases of QTL cloning. Many years have passed from the first grapevine marker isolation, the develop- ment of genetic and physical maps, until the deciphering of the genome sequence. With such a wealth of detailed information on wild and cultivated grapevines, we discuss how data sharing and multidisciplinary data integration are the current challenges that the scientific community faces to effectively translate knowl- edge into practice.