Identification of SNPs Linked to Key Root Traits in Sugar Beet

The identification of molecular markers linked to resistance against root diseases is a priority in sugar beet breeding. In this study, a linkage analysis was carried out to identify SNP markers associated with rhizomania (beet necrotic yellow vein virus, BNYVV) and cyst nematode (Heterodera schachtii Schmidt) resistance. A selected panel of 384 SNPs was screened for genotyping polymorphisms in segregating progenies for rhizomania and nematode resistance. The analysis was carried out by means of a novel high-throughput marker array technology (QuantStudio 12K Flex system with OpenArray technology, Life Technologies, Carlsbad, CA). Two of the 384 SNPs were associated (LOD ≥ 4.0) with rhizomania and nematode resistance. These selected SNPs were successfully validated in reference commercial varieties. This study identified two molecular markers which are amenable to high-throughput automated analysis and expected to be useful for rhizomania and nematode marker-assisted selection (MAS).