About this Research Topic
Many studies have published a myriad of QTL and genomic regions associated with target traits for crop improvement. However, most of these studies lacked the validation to be used for accelerating breeding and genetics programs. The current research topic plans to present a set of remarkable research and studies that aim to validate putative genetic results controlling target traits for the genetic improvement of crops. Moreover, the research topic aims to publish high-confidence-validated data to be used for upcoming research studies. The genetic validation can be investigated through marker-assisted selection, QTL fine genetic/physical mapping, genome-wide association study (GWAS), genomic selection, gene function, and gene expression. Also, validation of genetic diversity for DNA markers can be considered. Combined QTL and GWAS analyses as independent validation for the detected genomic region is highly appreciated to publish in this topic.
The research topic will cover many studies that will present proof of genetic validation and discuss the state-of-art methods that are used for validation. Precise phenotyping is required in addition to the genetic validation study. For QTL studies, QTLs should be validated in different locations and/or years and in different genetic backgrounds to estimate the role of epistasis and G×E interaction. For submissions describing QTL and genetic diversity validation, highly informative markers (e.g. KASP, SNP, DArT, and SSR) must be used. Submission with AFLP and RAPD markers will not be considered for publication in this issue.
From this perspective, we hope to receive manuscripts that fall within, but not limited to, the following themes:
- QTL fine genetic/physical mapping and validation of QTL controlling target traits for crop improvement
- Gene annotation analysis for candidate genes
- Validation of the polymorphic DNA markers in different population
- Validation of the expression for the gene of interest
- New methods or protocols for genetic validation
- Combined QTL and GWAS analyses with the same set of DNA markers are highly encouraged to submit their research
Keywords: genetic verification, gene, QTL, diversity, GWAS, gene expression
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.