A Genome-Wide Association Study Coupled With a Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Genetic Loci and Candidate Genes Governing the Flowering Time in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.).

ABSTRACT: The transition to flowering at the right time is very important for adapting to local conditions and maximizing alfalfa yield. However, the understanding of the genetic basis of the alfalfa flowering time remains limited. There are few reliable genes or markers for selection, which hinders progress in genetic research and molecular breeding of this trait in alfalfa. We sequenced 220 alfalfa cultivars and conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving 875,023 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The phenotypic analysis showed that the breeding status and geographical origin strongly influenced the alfalfa flowering time. Our GWAS revealed 63 loci significantly related to the flowering time. Ninety-five candidate genes were detected at these SNP loci within 40 kb (20 kb up- an

SUBMITTER: He F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9310038 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature