Compensatory Effect of the ScGrf3-2R Gene in Semi-Dwarf Spring Triticale (x Triticosecale Wittmack)

Abstract

The dwarfness in many triticale cultivars is provided by the dominant Ddw1 (Dominant dwarf 1) allele found in rye. However, along with conferring semi-dwarf phenotype to improve resistance to lodging, this gene also reduces grain size and weight and delays heading and flowering. Grf (Growth-regulating factors) genes are plant-specific transcription factors that regulate plant growth, including stem growth, in terms of length and thickness, and leaf and fruit size. In this work, we partially sequenced the rye gene ScGrf3 on chromosome 2R homologous to the wheat Grf3 gene, and found multiple polymorphisms in intron 3 and exon 4 complying with two alternative alleles (haplotypes ScGrf3-2Ra and ScGrf3-2Rb). For the identification of these, we developed a codominant PCR marker. Using a new marker, we studied the effect of ScGrf3-2R alleles in combination with the Ddw1 dwarf gene on economically valuable traits in F4 and F5 recombinant lines of spring triticale from the hybrid combination Valentin 90 x Dublet, grown in the Non-Chernozem zone for 2 years. Allele ScGrf3-2Ra was associated with greater thousand-grain weight, higher spike productivity, and earlier heading and flowering, which makes ScGrf3-2R a perspective compensator for negative effects of Ddw1 on these traits and increases prospects for its involvement in breeding semi-dwarf cultivars of triticale.

Exploring agronomic traits and breeding prospects of primary tritipyrum and triticale lines to increase grain yield potential

“…The successful exploitation of these resources necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the extent and nature of genetic diversity present within their primary lines. Genetic variation the cornerstone of any breeding effort that offers the potential to introduce valuable attributes such as disease resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, and improved nutritional profiles (Ayalew et al 2018;Sirakov et al 2021;Chernook et al 2022;Farokhzadeh et al 2022a). Moreover, harnessing the diversity present within primary tritipyrum and triticale lines can expedite the development of superior cultivars with tailored characteristics to meet evolving agricultural and consumer demands.…”