Linkage and QTL mapping in related full sib families - a case study in potato.

In this study, we present methodology for the simultaneous linkage and QTL analysis of six F1 populations resulting from crosses between two wild (resistant) and three cultivated genotypes in potato. We present a protocol to (a) generate one integrated marker linkage map for rather incomplete marker data obtained from multiple populations, (b) map QTLs and quantify their effects in multiple populations, and (c) visualize the results in a comprehensive way. Implications for germplasm characterization and utilization in crop improvement are discussed.