Two RAPD markers linked to a major fertility restorer gene in pepper

Both major and minor genes control the restoring of fertility in the cytoplasmic male-sterility system in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). Bulked segregant analysis (BSA) was applied to identify molecular markers linked to a major restorer gene (Rf) using the F₂ population of NiujiaojiaoNo.21 (rfrf)/Xiangtanwan (RfRf). Two random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers linked to this allele were detected with 520 decamer primers with arbitrary sequences. OP13₁₄₀₀ is a tightly linked marker with a genetic distance of0.37 cm. OW19₈₀₀ is on the opposite side with a distance of 8.12 cm. Both markers were repeatable and easy to score. A panel of genotypes, including 13elite inbred lines with different fertility restoring ability, were assayed for the presence ofOP13₁₄₀₀ and OW19₈₀₀. The markers are absent in all sweet pepper lines, indicating that they will be most helpful for transferring Rf into sweet pepper lines. With the aid of these markers, the size of the backcross population for testcrosses can be minimized. Furthermore, these markers will be useful in genetic analysis of the minor genes. This revised version was published online in July 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.