A Synthesis of Genome-Wide Methods for Improvement of Oat Beta-Glucan

Genome-wide methods that depend on molecular markers across the genome are now possible for oat improvement.  These methods include both Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS)  for QTL detection and Genomic Selection (GS) for cultivar development.  Recently, a number of manuscripts have been published on genome-wide methods for increased beta-glucan content in oat using the DArT marker system.  Additionally, these studies have surveyed a wide range of genetic diversity across oat, including germplasm resources from the National Plant Germplasm System and Elite North American cultivars.  For cultivar development, selection based on pedigree and phenotype were contrasted to marker-assisted and GS over two cycles, results from these selection programs will be presented along with a synthesis of results from genome-wide methods in oat.