ANNOUNCEMENTS
CMS based production of F1 hybrids requires a CMS line, the corresponding maintainer line, and a fertility restorer line. These genetic stocks are already available in the genetic background of C. annuum and widely used for development of chilli F1 hybrids. The current study aimed at developing these basic resources in the genetic background of Bhut Jolokia which belongs to C. chinense. To best of my knowledge, this is the first study of this kind carried out in this famous chilli landrace of north eastern India. This may be also the first study where high-throughput GBS-SNP markers were used for QTL mapping of restorer of fertility (Rf) trait in chilli in general and Bhut Jolokia in particular.
The major findings of this study are mentioned below.
1. The study conclusively showed that a functional Rf gene is present in the Bhut Jolokia genotype, CC 215. However, it is yet to be seen whether this source of Rf is strong enough to be successfully used in F1 hybrid development or would it require further manipulation in the genetic background.
2. Further, the study showed that the Rf trait in CC 215 is most likely controlled by a single major gene which exhibits incomplete dominance. However, the involvement of additional minor genes is not ruled out.
3. Two independent association-based QTL mapping studies involving two independent panels of individuals (F2 and F3 plants respectively) indicated that the major QTL controlling the Rf trait in CC 215 was located on chromosome 7. This was a major deviation from earlier available information on the location of Rf QTL in chilli. Almost all previous studies reported that the Rf QTL in chilli was located on chromosome 6.
4. Although, the current Rf is different from its C. annuum counterpart (as indicated by its different location), it is possible that PPR motif containing proteins may be controlling the Rf trait in Bhut Jolokia as has been reported in case of C. annuum. Genes coding PPR motif proteins were found to be present in close vicinity of the associated marker QTLs.
