Multiple loci with cumulative effects on late maturity α-amylase (LMA) in wheat

The cumulative action of combinations of alleles at several loci on the wheat genome is associated with different levels of resistance to late maturity α-amylase in bread wheat. Resistance to late maturity α-amylase (LMA) in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) involves a complex interaction between the genotype and the environment. Unfortunately, the incidence and severity of LMA expression is difficult to predict and once the trait has been triggered an unacceptably low falling number, high grain α-amylase may be the inevitable consequence. Wheat varieties with different levels of resistance to LMA have been identified but whilst some genetic loci have been reported, the mechanisms involved in resistance and the interaction between resistance loci requires further research. This investigation was focused on mapping resistance loci in populations derived by inter-crossing resistant wheat varieties or crossing resistant lines with a very susceptible line and then mapping quantitative trait loci. In addition to the previously reported locus on chromosome 7B for which a candidate gene has been proposed, loci were mapped on chromosomes 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 6A and 7D. These loci have limited effects on their own but have a cumulative effect in combination with each other. Further research will be required to determine the nature of the causal genes at these loci, to develop diagnostic markers and determine how the genes fit into the pathway that leads to the induction of α-AMY1 transcription in the aleurone of developing wheat grains. Depending on the target environmental conditions, different combinations of alleles may be required to achieve a low risk of LMA expression.