QTL mapping of starch granule size in common wheat using recombinant inbred lines derived from a PH82-2/Neixiang 188 cross

Starch is a crucial component determining the processing quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-based products. Wheat starch generally contains A-type and B-type starch granules, having different effects on starch properties and end-use qualities. In the present study, 240 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a PH82-2/Neixiang 188 cross were grown in Anyang, Henan, China, during three cropping seasons. A-type and B-type granule contents were determined using a laser diffraction particle size analyzer, defined as the percentage of total starch volume. A total of 195 SSR and STS markers were used to construct a genetic map. QTL analysis was performed by composite interval mapping. Three QTL for A-type starch granule content were mapped on chromosomes 1DL, 7BL and 4AL, explaining 5.6%, 5.2% and 3.8% of the phenotypic variation, respectively. These results provide useful information for improving starch quality in common wheat.