Use of Molecular Markers for Evaluation Drought Stress Tolerance in Wheat (Triticum L.) Genotypes

Several screening tests were carried out to evaluate drought resistance in total 12 wheat (Triticum L.) genotypes. As a result of PCR using RAPD markers it was found out that primer P6 produced 920 bp band in drought tolerant genotypes in comparison to sensitive ones (Garagylchyg-2, Giymatli-2/17 and semi-tolerant Gyrmyzy gul). Primer P7 produced a 750-bp band that is not absolutely universal for our genotypes. Genome-wide investigation was also conducted using Dreb 1 genes as an example. P21F/P21R primer amplified 1113 bp fragment in all tested genotypes, excluding Tale-38, suggesting that in these genotypes Dreb 1A gene is located on the third chromosome of A genome. The P18F/P18R primer amplified a 717 bp fragment from the B genome. It was found out that Dreb 1 gene was located on chromosome 3A in all genotypes, including drought-tolerant and drought-sensitive ones, excepting semi-tolerant genotype Tale-38. Contrary to other genotypes, a 717 bp PCR product of Dreb 1B gene was located on B genome from drought-tolerant variety Barakatli-95. Primers P22F/PR and P20F/P20R that amplify 596 and 1193 bp fragments, respectively, from D genome, that is common for hexaploid Triticum aestivum L. genotypes, did not reveal positive results.