DArTFest DNA Array—Applications and Perspectives for Grass Genetics, Genomics and Breeding

TLDR: DArTFest is a DNA microarray developed for the Festuca-Lolium complex, consisting of 7,680 probes, that offers high-throughput and low-cost screening of thousands of genomic loci and conversion to PCR-based markers is in progress.

Abstract: DArTFest is a DNA microarray developed for the Festuca-Lolium complex, consisting of 7,680 probes. As it offers high-throughput and low-cost screening of thousands of genomic loci, it has been successfully used in a number of projects. These include the analysis of interspecific, intraspecific and intravarietal genetic variation, genetic mapping, assigning markers to chromosomal segments, comparative analysis of the Festuca and Lolium genomes against model plant species rice and Brachypodium, an analysis of genomic constitution of Festulolium cultivars and QTL mapping of agronomically important traits such as resistance against crown rust and frost tolerance. In order to facilitate the use of DArT markers linked to traits of interests, a large number of them has been already sequenced and conversion to PCR-based markers is in progress.