Heritability and identification of QTLs and underlying candidate genes associated with the architecture of the grapevine cluster (Vitis vinifera L.).

KEY MESSAGE: We have identified 19 QTLs for rachis architecture, a key and complex trait for grapevine production. Fifty out of 1,173 genes underlying these QTLs are candidates to be further explored. In the table grape industry, the rachis architecture has economic and management implications. Therefore, understanding the genetics of this trait is key for its breeding. The aim of this work was to identify genetic determinants of traits associated with the cluster architecture. Characterisations of eight traits was performed on a 'Ruby Seedless' × 'Sultanina' crossing (F1: n = 137) during three seasons, with and without gibberellic acid (GA3) applications. The genotypic effects and the genotype × GA3 interactions were significant for several traits. Rachis length (rl), lateral shoulder length and node number along the central axis were the most prominent traits. On average, the heritability of these traits was ~71 %, with heritability of rl being 76 % as estimated under different seasons. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) analyses showed that linkage group 5 (LG5) and LG18 harboured the largest number of QTLs for these traits. According to the variance explained, the main QTL (corresponding to rl) was found on LG9. These QTLs were supported mainly by a paternal additive effect and revealed possible pleiotropic effects. Based on the grapevine reference genome, we identified 1,173 genes located under these QTL confidence intervals. Fifty of the 891 annotated genes of this list were selected for their further characterisation because of their possible participation in the rachis architecture. In conclusion, the QTLs detected indicate that these traits and their GA3 responsiveness have a clear genetic basis. Due to the percentage of the total variance explained, they are good candidates to participate in the genetic determination of the cluster architecture.