Molecular diagnosis of complex traits in crop plants.

Genetic variability and environmental factors determine the phenotype of the individuals of the same species. The possibilities to identify genetic variability at the DNA level, the availability of partial or even complete DNA sequence information of a multitude of organisms and the knowledge of gene function make it possible to explore the molecular basis of complex traits of humans, animals or plants. Knowledge on the molecular basis of complex traits of crop plants can contribute to the efficient selection of new varieties that are better adapted to human needs. In a pilot experiment, an association was found between field resistance of potato varieties to the late blight disease and DNA variants in a particular segment of the genome of potato (Solanum tuberosum).Christiane Gebhardt