Combining QTL Mapping and Gene Expression Analysis to Elucidate the Genetic Control of ‘Crumbly’ Fruit in Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.)

‘Crumbly’ fruit is a developmental disorder in raspberry that results malformed and unsaleable fruits. For the first time, we define two distinct crumbly phenotypes as part of this work. A consistent phenotype affecting majority fruits every season, which refer to (CFD) second where symptoms vary across seasons (MFD). Here, segregation MFD was examined full-sib family three QTL (Quantitative Trait Loci) were identified on high density GbS (Genotype by Sequencing) linkage map. This included new more accurate location previously QTLs. microarray experiment using normal at different stages several genes differentially expressed between non-crumbly within QTL. Analysis gene function highlighted importance processes compromise ovule fertilization triggers fruit. These candidate provided insights regarding molecular mechanisms involved genetic control red raspberry. study will contribute breeding strategies diagnostics through selection markers associated with trait.