Unlocking the genetic control of spring wheat kernel traits under normal and heavy metals stress conditions

Abstract Background and aims Pb Sn concentration increase rapidly due to the industrial revolution cause a significant reduction in wheat production productivity. Understanding genetic control of tolerance is very important produce cultivars that are tolerant such metals. Methods Extensive analyses using genome-wide association study, functional annotation, gene enrichment were investigated set 103 highly diverse spring genotypes. Kernel traits as kernel length (KL), diameter (KD), width (KW), 1000-kernel weight (TKW) measured under each metal well controlled conditions. Results The GWAS identified total 131, 126, 115 markers associated with Ctrl, Pb, Sn. Moreover, stress index (STI) for was calculated revealed 153 105 markers, respectively. Remarkably, one SNP Ku_c269_2643 located within TraesCS2A02G080700 model found be KL three results three, six networks have an processes involved formation. target alleles all detected by most genotypes truly select candidate parents crossing future breeding programs. Conclusion This first study unlocked yield heavy metals will accelerate programs improve