Physical mapping and a new variant of Puroindoline b-2 genes in wheat

Puroindoline a and b proteins soften the endosperm of wheat kernels. When the underlying puroindoline genes are altered by mutation or are deleted, kernels become harder. Thus, puroindoline a and b (Pina and Pinb) play an important role in wheat quality and utilization. Recently, additional Pinb genes have been reported. In the present report, we provide corroborating coding and additional 5' and 3' flanking sequence for three Pinb variants: Pinb-2v1, Pinb-2v2, and Pinb-2v3. Additionally, a new Pinb variant, Pinb-2v4, is reported. All four variants were physically mapped using Chinese Spring (CS) diteolosomics, nullisomic-tetrasomics, and CS-Cheyenne disomic substitution lines. Results place Pinb-2v1 on 7DL, Pinb-2v2 on 7BL, Pinb-2v3 on 7B, and Pinb-2v4 on 7AL. Pinb-2v1 and Pinb-2v4 were present in all cvs. examined: CS, Cheyenne, Recital, Wichita and Winsome. Pinb-2v2 was present in CS and Recital; Pinb-2v3 was present in Cheyenne, Wichita, and Winsome. These results are not wholly consistent with prior research and additional studies will be required to reconcile discrepancies. The discovery of Pinb-2v4 and the mapping of all four variants will contribute to a better understanding of gene duplication events in wheat and their bearing on wheat kernel texture and grain utilization.