Association Mapping of fertility restorer gene for CMS PET1 in sunflower

he phenomenon of cytoplasmic male sterility, consisting in the inability to produce functional pollen due to mutations in a mitochondrial genome, has been described in more than 150 plant species. With the discovery of nuclear fertility restorer (Rf) genes capable of suppressing the CMS phenotype, it became possible to use the CMS-Rf genetic systems as the basis for the practical utilization of the heterosis effect in various crops. Seed production of sunflower hybrids over the world is based on the extensive use of the PET1 CMS with combination of the Rf1 gene. At the same time, data on Rf1 localization, sequence and molecular basis for the CMS PET1 type restoration of fertility remain unknown. Searching for candidate genes of the Rf1 gene have a great fundamental and practical value. Therefore, in this study, association mapping of fertility restorer gene for CMS PET1 in sunflower was performed. The GWAS results made it possible to isolate a segment of 7.72 Mb in length on chromosome 13, in which 21 candidates for Rf1 fertility restorer gene were identified, including 20 PPR-family genes and one Probable aldehyde dehydrogenase gene. The results will serve as a basis for further study of the genetic nature and molecular mechanisms for pollen fertility restoration in sunflower, as well as for the further sunflower breeding intensification.